2022 summer airdrielife

SUMMER 2022

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great

ways to get your

greens

EXTREME SPORTS

Parkour & Flag Football

Urban Farming

INDIGENOUS Recognition

Kyle McKearney’s ROOTS ARE HITTING THE CHARTS Airdrie Pro Rodeo is back!

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Plus more fun things to do this summer in Airdrie

MIDTOWN A New Experience in Airdrie Life.

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When you choose to live in Midtown, you are choosing to Find Your Happy Place.

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Changing the Way Divorce Happens™ “Through Collaborative Resolution”

PUBLISHER/EDITOR-IN-CHIEF DIGITAL MANAGER EDITORIAL DIRECTOR DESIGN DIRECTOR

Sherry Shaw-Froggatt Erika Tobolski Vanessa Peterelli Kim Williams

CONTRIBUTORS

Donna Barrett, Bianca Bedford, Sergei Belski, Kim Cheel, Christopher Doi, Jarrett Edmund, Patricia Merrick, Christie Moser, Carl Patzel, Kim Purvis, Shauna Quinn, Josie Randall, Kristy Reimer, Jody Sanderson, Shilo Storey, Michelle Tasa, Wyatt Tremblay

Stock photography by istock

SALES DIRECTOR AD DESIGN/PRODUCTION DISTRIBUTION MANAGER PRINTING

Wendy Pratt Brenda Weeks Sharie Tanner Central Web

CONTACT US EDITORIAL ADVERTISING WEBSITE/SOCIAL MEDIA

sherry@frogmediainc.ca wendy@frogmediainc.ca erika@frogmediainc.ca

FUNDED BY THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADA

Saves Time: Our team is committed to achieving resolution within 120 days of completed financial disclosure.

Saves Money: You pay a flat fee versus on-going hourly and unpredictable fees.

Suite 1102, 401 Coopers Blvd SW, Airdrie (403) 355-9955 Fairwaydivorce.com 4

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WHERE TO FIND US airdrielife is published quarterly by Frog Media Inc. with the co-operation of the City of Airdrie Economic Development Department.

VOLUME 19, NUMBER 2 | ISSN 1916-355X Contents copyright 2022 by Frog Media Inc. May not be reproduced without permission. The publisher does not assume any responsibility for the contents of any advertisement, and all representations of warranties made in such advertising are those of the advertiser and not of the publisher.

EDITORIAL POLICY airdrielife editorial is not for sale. Editorial is completely independent from advertising, and no special editorial consideration or commitment of any kind can form any part of the advertising agreement. All editorial inquiries must be directed toward the editor. airdrielife does not accept unsolicited submissions.

Freelance writers and photographers interested in assignments are asked to send an inquiry, with published samples, to sherry@frogmediainc.ca

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Changing the Way Divorce Happens™ “Through Collaborative Resolution”

Contributors With long summer days on our minds we asked our contributors this issue to share their favourite summer activities.

Sergei Belski, photographer I usually just take photographs somewhere, but I do enjoy a good road trip or a nice short hike. These days, getting older and all ... if I’m not taking photos, you probably would find me relaxing in the backyard, maybe barbecuing.

Patricia Merrick, writer Picnics and summer evening walks with my family but also enjoying a cold one on a patio!

Carl Patzel, photographer and writer When I’m not playing pickleball under a brilliant summer sun, two chihuahua sisters are leading me around the Sagewood pond. That and “letting” my grandsons beat me in backyard soccer. Ice cream and patio dining doesn’t hurt either.

Josie Randall, writer My favourite summer activity is exploring Alberta camping in my teeny tiny trailer with my husband and our Irish wolfhound, Guilia.

Protects the Kids: You can minimize the impact of divorce on your children by working collaboratively to achieve a parenting plan that is focused on their best interests. This assists in transitioning from a married family to a co-parenting family successfully.

Suite 1102, 401 Coopers Blvd SW, Airdrie (403) 355-9955 Fairwaydivorce.com 6

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Kristy Reimer, photographer I love summer camping, hiking, biking and kayaking. There is nothing better to restore my soul than being saturated with nature.

Jody Sanderson, writer/columnist Anything outdoors … hiking, walking, bike riding … and that includes pina coladas on a patio!!!

Wyatt Tremblay, writer My wife and I enjoy riding our bicycles on Airdrie’s many, wonderful bike/ walking paths. We go every day, except during those torrential downpours!

St. Augustine model by Douglas Homes

VIEW SHOWHOMES

Changing the Way Divorce Happens™ “Through Collaborative Resolution”

Publisher’s Note

W

Less Stress: Our non-adversarial process minimizes conflict and strives for a fair outcome based on your legal rights and that reflects your desires regarding children and money.

Suite 1102, 401 Coopers Blvd SW, Airdrie (403) 355-9955 Fairwaydivorce.com 8

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elcome to summer in Airdrie! I hope when you are reading this you are sitting on the back deck, listening to the sound of birds and lawn mowers and thinking about where to go have a healthy bite in town. (Check out our salads feature for inspiration.)

Our summer issue has always traditionally focused on the men in our city and we’ve found some fascinating gentlemen to highlight, from our cover story of rising music star Kyle McKearney to the president of the Alberta Métis Association, Lawrence Gervais.

Speaking of fascinating gentlemen, my dad (that’s him rubbing noses with me above), would have been turning 80 this July so I dedicate this issue to him, the first man in my life. I lost him seven years ago and I see him in every tall elderly man I meet on the golf course, sporting a straw fedora. My dad was an avid community booster and taught me a lot about the importance of being an active part of a place. And that complaining was a waste of energy … doing was key.

I love seeing stories in our magazine about people who are doing things in our city, like the drivers for Volunteer Airdrie, the urban farming enthusiasts, the eager new entrepreneurs and the coaching team of brothers Brody and Jared Atkin.

I’m excited to see the Airdrie Pro Rodeo return and happy to see our events listing grow again as we move forward from two years of pandemic paralysis. Check the list we started to gather in late April on page 23 and follow us on social for more events as they come on board.

Did you know we have an Alberta-wide scholarship program for high school and post-secondary students pursing an education in journalism and communication? It is dedicated to the memory of former airdrielife editor Anne Beaty. Thanks to the generosity of her mom and daughters, we offer $1,000 each year to the successful applicant. You’ll find all the details at airdrielife.com/community Thank you once again to the advertisers who made this issue possible. We can only tell as many stories as we have pages to print, and our page count is based solely on advertising sales.

Shopping local also means reading local. So, I thank you for picking up this copy of airdrielife and in turn learning more about the people, the stories, the activities and businesses that make this city a very special place.

Sherry Shaw-Froggatt Publisher

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Relaxed art

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Horror writer

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Kyle McKearney

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Eventful summer

26

AAW recap

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Go for the green

36 Parentlife 38 Seniorlife 40 Petlife

homelife 42

Life in lanark

44 Online homebuying 46 Outdoor design 47

Realestate life

48 The great room

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worklife 52

Businesslife

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20 years

56 Biz on ice 59 Smart starters

20 On the Cover Kyle McKearney is making music PHOTO BY CHRIS DOI

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citylife

64 Pipe ceremony 66 Parkour 68 Extreme flag 70

Fire chief

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Métis man

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Drive happy

77 Urban farming

greatlife

W H AT T O S E E , D O , E AT, L I ST E N T O A N D M O R E

12 16 LITERARY NIGHTMARES | 23 SUMMER EVENTS | 28 GET YOUR GREENS

G R E AT L I F E | A R T I ST P R O F I L E

Gareth Worrall:

RELAXING THROUGH ART

STORY BY WYATT TREMBLAY | PHOTOS BY SERGEI BELSKI

A

irdrie artist Gareth Worrall loves wide-open Alberta landscapes; the mountains, the lakes and the wind-swept vistas, but that’s not really why he paints them.

“It’s a big stress relief,” he says. “I can just basically turn off my mind and focus on what I’m doing, and think about nothing else except what’s right in front of me.”

Worrall, who moved from Calgary to Airdrie with his wife more than five years ago, is a bicycle mechanic at Cranked. He used to work for WestJet. “I was working there for quite a few years, but unfortunately due to COVID, quite a few of us were laid off.”

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With his job in limbo, he says he began to explore what else he might be interested in doing. Oil painting was something he had done on and off for more than two decades, so he wondered if his art might be a possible career opportunity.

His father was a painter who enjoyed doing caricatures, he explains, adding that the television artist Bob Ross was a household staple growing up.

Worrall had already begun investing time in his artwork after the move to Airdrie. He was in a few art shows and joined the Airdrie Art Society; he also had a few commissions, provided two colouring contest drawings for Airdrie Parades for Canada Day, and was involved in the Voice & Vision Collaboration project.

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G R E AT L I F E | A R T I ST P R O F I L E

PQ – “I can just basically turn off my mind and focus on what I’m doing, and think about nothing else except what’s right in front of me”

However, with the uncertainty around his job, he took serious steps toward becoming a working artist, further developing his painting skills and trying new ideas. He was never rehired, so, “I’ve been reinventing myself, basically, since then.”

Once he has an idea, he says, it usually takes him just a few days to complete it, though once in a while he’ll spend a week working on a piece. He doesn’t have a traditional studio, preferring instead to work in his garage.

“I like being in open spaces, but when it gets really cold, I move indoors to the basement.”

It’s the big skies and majestic mountains that inspire Worrall. He and his wife travel frequently to Cochrane, Banff and Jasper.

“They’re just beautiful areas, and kind of where I get my inspiration from.”

He takes photos, uploads them to his iPad, and then lets his imagination play with the elements in the images, developing them into his own vision.

“I might reference a couple of photos, but generally, I just look at a blank canvas and I see exactly how I want it to turn out.”

He paints only with oil and sometimes uses a palette knife for texture to create landscapes that are uniquely from his mind. Vibrant with colour, his skillful use of light brings mountains, forests and lakes to life. This interplay of light and colour adds a remarkable sense of dynamic motion to his landscapes. Some of these works, such as Mount Rundle and The Three Sisters, have a fantasy-like quality, as if the viewer has been transported to an alternate universe that is similar to our own, but you’re certain a mythical dragon could appear at any moment.

Worrall sells his work online and is hoping to get into some smaller galleries, but insists his main focus is to enjoy himself.

“I don’t want to get to the point where it feels like a job. Like I said, it’s relaxing for me.”

He plans to keep developing his skills, but, as he has learned, the future is not always certain.

“That’s the thing about art; you just don’t know where it’ll take you. I’m just going to continue doing what I’m doing.” life 14

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G R E AT L I F E | W R I T E R S

“I am hoping that after reading the book people will have an appreciation for horror. Because it’s not all Stephen King. It’s not just about making your heart beat fast.”

HORROR,

HE WRITES STORY BY JOSIE RANDALL | PHOTOS BY SERGEI BELSKI

I

t would be as early as 2 a.m. on a school night when Caillou Pettis would finally peel his eyes away from yet another horror fiction novel.

He’d lay in bed staring up at the ceiling. Sometimes scared straight.

Other times, inspired to write his own horror anthology.

“I kind of wanted to write a book for as long as I can remember,” says Pettis, who was born and raised in Airdrie.

“When I was younger, I used to read a lot of the young-adult style horror books. Like Goosebumps, Fear Street and Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark. Those books were crazy to me, but they were also very easy to read. I always kind of thought it would be cool if one day I could write a story like that.”

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Over the years, Pettis took inspiration from everywhere. Random pictures on the internet, people he met on the street and strange things that happened to him while growing up.

Eventually Pettis locked himself to a desk for four months to write While You Sleep. It was released in March 2022, and is available on Amazon and Kobo.

He describes it as 10 pulse-racing stories all set in the fictional city of Newryst — one of the most terrifying places known to mankind.

“I wanted to create a diverse selection of stories. So for example one is about sleep paralysis, one is about this kid who wakes up in this room and he has no idea how he got there and has to find clues to get out,” says Pettis.

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G R E AT L I F E | W R I T E R S

G R E AT L I F E | R E A D

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e are thrilled to share the Airdrie Reads 2022 finalists! After another host of incredible submissions by a talented group of Albertan authors, the five champions have chosen their titles to defend.

Definitely put these titles on your to-read list.

Stay tuned to our social media for information on the authors, the champions, and where you can purchase these books!

The titles and their champions are: •Kids of Concern, by Perry Logan, defended by Veronica Funk •Murder on My Mind, by Dana Goldstein, defended by Tara Molina •The Shade Tree, by Theresa Shea, defended by Tega Odogu •Touch, by C.B. Czech, defended by Amber Kakakaway •Creeboy, by Teresa Wouters, defended by Karina Clayton

What is Airdrie Reads?

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FROM FILM CRITIC TO AUTHOR

MORE THAN STEPHEN KING

The first-time author has always had a foot in the entertainment industry.

In 2012 Pettis created a YouTube channel reviewing movies, toys and video games. He’s also produced content for other YouTube channels boasting more than 10 million subscribers and one billion video views.

“I had always really liked watching movies, but I started watching videos of people analyzing movies – talking about what made movies so great and different aspects of filmmaking.

I thought ‘well I could do that,’” Pettis says.

“Movies I had been watching my whole life were different. Even books, I started looking at how they were composed. I felt really strongly that I could be a voice people would want to hear from.”

Pettis began writing movie reviews when he was 16 years old, eventually starting his own website, cailloupettismoviereviews.com, and becoming an official movie reviewer for Rotten Tomatoes.

His work has also appeared on IndieWire, Awards Radar and Gold Derby.

Pettis says one of the reasons horror and thriller content has always interested him is just how diverse the genre can be.

“There are so many things you can do,” says Pettis.

“Like psychological horror, a gore or slasher kind of thing – and that’s something I tried to do with my book is, different types of horror. There’s a lot of potential for fresh and interesting ideas with horror.”

Pettis has already started work on a second book set within the same universe as While You Sleep, but he says it’s not necessarily a sequel.

Instead, it’ll be filled with different characters and different stories in Newryst.

“I am hoping that after reading the book people will have an appreciation for horror.

Because it’s not all Stephen King. It’s not just about making your heart beat fast,” says Pettis.

“It can help us better understand ourselves and how we would react to situations. It can also even help us understand the world around us. Even if you have to sleep with the lights on sometimes.” life

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Airdrie Reads is a local Alberta spin on an epic national book battle – Canada Reads. Airdrie Reads combines the passion for books with the drama of reality TV – think The Bachelorette meets literature! The contest is sponsored by Big Sky Author Services and The Feathered Pen, providers of local author services, with the aim to promote authors in Alberta. We also hope to inspire Airdronians to read these local treasures over the summer. Finally, during the Airdrie Reads contest, we will also be engaging local businesses in the community on social media to promote the ‘support local’ theme.

How it Works

Once the book entries have been shortlisted, five Airdrie champions will choose one of the finalists’ books in which to indulge, and then they will pitch their book selection to a panel of judges. Airdronians can cheer on their favourites while they watch the champions persuade the judges in a video-pitch showdown, and the winning Alberta author will be crowned this year’s Airdrie Reads winner!

The Prize

In addition to the winning author’s book being highlighted on the shelves of several local stores, they will receive a free social media endorsement from both Big Sky Author Services and The Feathered Pen, and the grand prize of a professionally written article in the fall issue of airdrielife magazine!

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G R E AT L I F E | M U S I C

SERGEI BELSKI PHOTO

“The dream is just to keep going, to keep making records and playing shows. If I can afford to support my family making music, that would be the dream for me.”

20 MM MM E RE R2022 20 airdrielife.com airdrielife.com | | S U SU 2022

Kyle McKearney

keepin’ it simple STORY BY WYATT TREMBLAY

K

yle McKearney is no stranger to the music industry. This Airdrie-based Métis musician comes from a long line of country and bluegrass singersongwriters.

“My dad and my grandparents all played, so I grew up around it. I was actually born on the road; my dad was a bass and banjo player for the East Coast Riders.”

McKearney, who is married and has two sons, says it was a fun way to grow up and is why he brings his family with him.

His wife, Sarah, is a singer in his band, which makes touring as a family possible.

“I remember how much fun it was as a kid, and I just want to give them that experience, but I wouldn’t do this without Sarah.”

McKearney is a singer-songwriter in the Americana musical genre, which blends elements of country, roots-rock, folk, R&B, blues and bluegrass. He and his band – McKearney on guitar and vocals, Sarah on vocals, Russell Broom on guitar, Mitch Jay on multiple instruments, Lisa Jacobs on bass, and Ben Bradley on drums – stylishly mix storytelling and songs of the heart into their videos and recordings reminiscent of the genre’s Drive-By Truckers and Jason Isbell.

It’s McKearney’s catchy melodies and singable lyrics, and the effortless way he delivers them, that distinguishes him as a songwriter with heart. Even if you’re not a fan of Americana, the group’s skilled musicianship and honest emotion make you want to see and hear more.

There’s an obvious joy in what he does, and it’s this love of making music that has guided McKearney’s career. He’s been in the industry for more than 16 years and has played in numerous bands and venues from Fort St. John to Nashville to Las Vegas. He has a successful solo album, earned YYC Music and Country Music Alberta nominations, has co-written a song with Queen’s Roger Taylor, and recorded a series of cover songs that have hundreds of thousands of views on social media. And that’s just a few highlights from his impressive career. He also recently earned second place in the Project WILD competition.

Run by Alberta Music and Calgary’s WILD 95.3 FM, Project WILD is a country artist development program.

“It’s a really cool thing. I learned a lot about the industry, even though I’ve done a lot in the industry – but I haven’t done everything.”

McKearney appreciated that there were top-notch industry people who, as part of the run up to the finale, consulted with the contestants on vocals, styling, performance and other aspects of the craft.

His win also came with a $75,000 cheque.

“It was fun. There were a lot of great artists in this program; it never felt like a competition. Winning the money was great, but musicians just want to make records and that’s where this will go.”

His first solo album, Down-Home, co-produced with bandmate Russell Broom, was released in 2021. The eight-song album came S U M M E R 2022

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JARRETT EDMUND PHOTO

G R E AT L I F E | M U S I C

Kyle and Sarah McKearney in concert

together after a six-month tour in 2019 playing guitar with the Queen-inspired musical We Will Rock You. The experience gave McKearney a taste of all the things he had worked for and hoped to accomplish.

“We were on the big buses, the swanky hotels, and had our gear set up for us. If 14-year-old me had been in the audience watching me play guitar at Madison Square Garden, he would have been like, ‘Wow, that’s amazing, you really did something.’”

However, by this time he had a family, and his goals were changing. “I was gone for six months. I missed my kids. I wanted to go home.”

The songs on Down-Home, such as Sweet Summer Rain and Keepin’ it Simple, are a reflection on the things he had been feeling for some time.

“They’re a bunch of songs about being home and looking at what’s really important in life.”

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The financial boost from Project WILD is helping McKearney release a second album that he’s been recording at Calgary’s OCL Studios. Broom is co-producing on this one as well. They’ll tease their fans with a single release every few months until January of 2023, when they’ll drop the full album at a launch party.

The first single is called Grandfather, and like Down-Home, the songs on the as-yet-untitled album come from McKearney’s personal experiences.

“But there’s some fun stuff; I like the fun. I like to have a good time, and I like writing about that.”

Last fall, McKearney signed with Livestar Entertainment Canada, a leading talent booking agency, which promises to bring more concert dates and opportunities, but his focus has not changed.

“The dream is just to keep going, to keep making records and playing shows. If I can afford to support my family making music, that would be the dream for me.” life

G R E AT L I F E | E V E N TS

Entertainment Ahead!

FUN THINGS TO CHECK OUT IN AIRDRIE ALL SUMMER LONG

MAY 22 – OCT. 9 (SUNDAYS) SUMMER HAPPENINGS IRON HORSE PARK The miniature trains, track and landscape at Iron Horse Park represent the Canadian Pacific Railway (CPR) from the prairies to the coast. Take the 1.6-km interpretive journey aboard one of the 1/8th scale diesel or steam locomotives at the park and get a feeling of what the railway was like in Western Canada during the pioneer days. The journey will take you over hills, across trestles and through tunnels across the varied landscape. Admission to the park is free. The cost of journeys is $3 each.

Children under the age of 3 ride for free but must be accompanied by an adult. Snacks and souvenirs can be found in the full-size replica of a CPR station on site. Picnic tables on site provide a place for small family gatherings. The park is also available for children’s birthday party bookings.

JUNE 1 – OCTOBER AIRDRIE FARMERS MARKET The summer season for the Airdrie Farmers Market kicks off June 1 at the Plainsmen Arena. It runs rain or shine every Wednesday from 3:30-7 p.m.

Dash & Dine at the market this year will also bring together seven food trucks every Wednesday to the arena. Follow Airdrie Farmers Market on Facebook for updates.

JUNE 5 TOOL SHED DUATHLON AIRDRIE RODEO GROUNDS Head on over for the third annual Tool Shed Duathlon. It is a 5-km run, 20-km bike and 2.5-km run welcoming adults of all fitness levels in support of the MitoCanada Foundation. A post-race celebration includes live music and ice-cold beverages. For more information visit rnrpremierevents.com/ tool-shed-duathlon JUNE 12 FILIPINO INDEPENDENCE DAY NOSE CREEK PARK The PIOCC Sulong Kalayaan Society is hosting Picnic at the Park to celebrate the Philippines Independence Day 2022 at noon. There will be food, games and live entertainment by the Rizal Monument. Admission is free. For more information, follow PIOCC SKS Sulong Kalayaan Society on Facebook.

Allen the Alpaca Farm Day WILLOW RIDGE EQUINE Join Allen the Alpaca and all his farm friends from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. Located just 17 minutes northwest of Airdrie, expect bouncy castles, face painting, food trucks, petting zoo and gift draws. Entrance fee is $15 per child. Follow Allen the Alpaca on Facebook for more updates.

JUNE 16 FISHING NOSE CREEK PARK Get those fishing rods and tackle boxes out of storage, the Nose Creek Pond inside Nose Creek Park officially opens for fishing on June 16.

JUNE 18 AIRDRIE PRIDE FESTIVAL AND SOLIDARITY WALK The annual Airdrie Pride Festival offers three main events to celebrate the community and its allies.

A solidarity walk begins at Airdrie City Hall at 10:45 a.m. and ends at Nose Creek Park for a flag raising to kick off Pride in the Park. The rest of the afternoon includes games, entertainment and informational booths. For more information visit airdriepride.ca JUNE 18-19 KIDAPALOOZA HOMESTEAD MARKET Bouncy castles, scavenger hunts, story time and magicians — what more could a kid want?

Kidapalooza is a kid-friendly market from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Located just two minutes southwest of Airdrie, you’ll find vendors and entertainment all geared towards kids. Watch for more details on homesteadmarketalberta.com

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G R E AT L I F E | E V E N T S

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JUNE 21 NATIONAL INDIGENOUS PEOPLES DAY NOSE CREEK PARK Circle Connections for Reconciliation Airdrie is celebrating National Indigenous Peoples Day, which will include elders’ prayers, stories and performances. Watch for details on Facebook at Circle Connections for Reconciliation.

JULY 23 RANCH HAND COMPETITION AIRDRIE RODEO GROUNDS The Airdrie Ag Society is hosting this event from noon to 5 p.m., including classes on branding, team penning and a kids’ calf scramble. Food trucks will also be on site. For more information visit airdrieagsociety.com

COMING IN SEPTEMBER:

JULY 1 CANADA DAY PARADE & FIREWORKS MAIN STREET More than 100 floats are expected to roll down Airdrie’s Main Street for the annual Canada Day Parade. The parade will begin at 10 a.m. and make its way downtown to Allen Street S.E. More announcements about the parade and fireworks can be found on the Airdrie Parades Facebook page.

AUG. 6 Airdrie Show & Shine NOSE CREEK PARK The annual classic car show put on by the Airdrie Time Travellers Car Club will be “Doin it on the Grass for Bill.” Expect hundreds of clean and classic muscle cars on display — along with a variety of food trucks. For more details, follow the Time Travellers Car Club of Airdrie on Facebook.

SEPT. 17 ART OF THE HARVEST AIRDRIE AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY SITE Join the Airdrie Ag Society from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Learn about what goes into farming with live demos and music. For more information visit airdrieagsociety.com

JULY 1-2 AIRDRIE PRO RODEO AIRDRIE RODEO GROUNDS Dust off your cowboy hats, the Airdrie Pro Rodeo is back on Canada Day weekend. Located just five minutes west of Airdrie, the two-day event is packed with fun for the whole family including live music, face painting, food trucks and beer gardens.

AUG. 20 BUBBLE CHASE 5 K ED EGGERER ATHLETIC PARK Run, walk and play in a massive colourful bubble bog. The 5-km course is fun for the whole family, and welcomes wheelchairs and strollers on the course. The day also includes live entertainment, merchandise stalls and colourful photo booths. For more information visit bubblechase5k.com

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SEPT. 10 AIRDRIEFEST More details coming soon about this annual, family-fun event. Follow AirdrieFEST on Facebook.

TBA SUMMER EVENTS AIRDRIE AIRPARK Located just 5 minutes east of Airdrie, the Airdrie Airpark has several events in the works this summer. For updates visit airdrieairpark.com

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I

t was an amazing evening

I as more than 150 guests

celebrated the 51 Amazing Airdrie Women nominees.

We presented 10 awards, sipped prosecco, devoured Parisienne desserts and grooved to the Deanne Matley Trio.

Special thanks to all our amazing sponsors: Pharmasave on Centre Airdrie Eyecare Excel Homes Shilo Storey Illuminate Mortgage Group Cream Body & Bath Explosive Edge First & Main Financial McKee Homes Pink Wand Cleaning Pureform Radiology Superior Hearing Solutions Vitreous Glass

See more images at airdrielife.com

It was

amazing!

Proud sponsor of the

A

a 22

W

est. 2011

Amazing Airdrie Women Awards for

Presenting our 2022 Amazing Airdrie Women Award recipients: Back row, left to right: Explosive Edge Amazing Athlete - Taelyr Patton (representing her sister Kendall Patten); Pureform Amazing Courage - Amber Ward Kakakaway; GP Law Amazing Advocate - Tammy Plunkett; airdrielife publisher Sherry Shaw-Froggatt; Cream Amazing Determination - Jaadaas Jagwaa; Pharmasave Amazing Heart - Ashton Bennett; First & Main Financial Amazing Legacy - Hien Le; McKee Homes Amazing Mentor - Stephanie de Souza; Vitreous Glass Amazing Cultural Ambassador - Kim Cheel; Pink Wand Amazing Workplace - Marilyne Aalhus (representing Airdrie Chamber of Commerce). Missing: Superior Hearing Amazing Promise - Aerin Bell.

12 years!

101 209 Centre Ave SW 403.948.0010 pharmasave.com storeupstairs.ca

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Going for the G R E AT L I F E | TAST E A I R D R I E

GREEN

STORY AND PHOTOS BY CARL PATZEL

E

nduring sporadic, double-digit months of pandemic-driven takeout and delivery cuisine, it’s time to go light on the dietary restrictions.

Not exactly light as in calories, but after filling the pie hole with pizza, burgers and other high-caloric eats, the option to go green seemed a logical direction for the summertime dinner table.

Unlike the pesky door-to-door energy salesperson (who seems to have a nose for interrupting during the eating hour), we’re not totally slamming the door on carbohydrates, meats, cheeses and other tasty morsels.

Going green means seeking local eateries for fresh salad dishes consisting of leafy lettuce, mostly raw vegetables, and some flavoursome dressings and protein additions.

Ignoring the declarations of my father complaining about “rabbit food,” we embrace the carrot-munching bunny inside all of us and dive into bowls of the herbaceous plant. So, let’s crunch, munch and chomp our way through some of Airdrie’s dining establishments.

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VISIT COBS BREAD IN THE TOWERLANE MALL 102 505 Main Street 403-980-2627

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STATE & MAIN

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Leafy plants can be combined in many forms, with multiple toppings and dressings and usually surrounded by little trinkets of vegetables.

With several combinations on the menu, varying from spicy Thai, chopped, grilled chicken Caesar to steak salads, State & Main drives home this light, but satisfying meal.

Their grilled steak salad unites romaine lettuce, chucks of tomato and grilled mushrooms, red onion and certified Angus beef sirloin all married by bits of blue cheese and a healthy dose of buttermilk blue cheese dressing.

Don’t let the blue-veined cheese scare you. This lesser-used dairy delight provides a nice salty, slightly bitter quality to the dish.

The crispy red onions and cubed tomatoes help cut through the ample dressing which blends well with the fist-sized, savoury steak.

Virtually carbohydrate free, this recipe is a great substitute for a sandwich and French fries, leaving the diner satisfied and maybe even with a bit of room for a beverage or dessert.

BREWSTERS

Deconstruction, in the building world, can be an invasive, explosive act leaving rubble and damage in its wake. In the kitchen, it becomes an opportunity for some appetizing creativity.

In the restaurant dining industry, elevating a somewhat-common dish to monumental heights can become a trendsetter.

Brewsters, while producing a small but complex menu, has fashioned such a dish with their Tuna Poke salad.

A combination of cucumber, edamame beans, avocado and marinated Ahi tuna sits on top of colourful mixed green and purple leaves while framed by large wonton crisps.

Spicy sriracha mayo, wasabi aioli and pickled ginger add tang to the dish.

Envision a deconstructed California sushi roll with a little fusion flare of Tex-Mex and bright colours akin to a geisha kimono.

Don’t let the raw tuna cause any hesitation. The marinade softens the fresh fish even more giving a creamy consistency that pairs with the avocado and crunch of the cucumber, sliver-thin wonton crisp and beans.

This is one health of a bowl.

DICKSON STEVENSON TR N

RGE RD 293 NE

REUNION

WN BV

1998-2005 MAIN ST N

NW

KC

NE BV KE

SMITH ST NE

VIRGINIA ST SE

ALBERT ST NE

ST EA

1988-1993 ERIN DR SE

W

SUMMERFIELD BV SE

PA SW TONE

VW SW

1995-2000

SUMMERHILL

LUX

LUXS

LUXSTONE RD SW

CI SW

IDE

BAYS

TS

EP

LUXSTONE CR SW

MEADOWBROOK MEADOWBROOK 1988-1999

1990-1996

BAYSIDE AV SW

SUMMERFIELD CL SE

YANKEE VALLEY BV SW

WINDFORD DR SW OSBORNE RI SW

2

MORNINGSIDE CL SW SHARP HILL WY SE

KINGS HEIGHTS DR SE

100 KINGSMERE CV SE

KING’S HEIGHTS 2005-2022

D

EN

RA V RAVENSWOOD DR SE

RAVENSCROFT CL SE

SE

KINGS HEIGHTS RD SE

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RAVENSLEA CR SE

KINGSBURY CLY SE

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KINGS HEIGHTS GA SE

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COOPERSTOWN PL SW

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PRAIRIE SPRINGS DR SW COOPERS LI SW

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2018-PRESENT

PRAIRIE SPRINGS CR SW

CHINOOK WINDS DR SW

PRAIRIE SPRINGS

COOPERS MR SW

CHINOOK WINDS PL SW

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YANKEE VALLEY BV SW

CHINOOK CHINOOK GATE GATE

MEADOWBROOK DR SE

YANKEE YANKEE VALLEY ESTATES VALLEY CROSSING 2004-2010

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BOWERS ST NE

ACACIA DR SE

RIDGEGATE WY SW

EAST LAKE RD NE

ASHWOOD RD SE

RAILWAY GA SW

BAYSIDE BV SW

BAYVIEW

BAYSPRINGS CO SW

2 AV SE

ALDER CR SE 3 AV SE

ALPINE CR SE

CANALS

SAGEWOOD LD SW

EAST LAKE INDUSTRIAL

RAVENSMOOR WY SE RAVENSDUN CR SE

RAVENSCROFT AV SE

RAVENSMOOR CM SE

MACKENZIE WY SW

2 AV NE

CENTRE AV E

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ALBERT ST SE

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BAYSPRINGS WY SW

1 ST NW

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2003-2008

1 AV NE

1 ST SW

CANOE RD SW

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TOWER LANE DR SW

CANALS BV SW

SAGEWOOD BV SW

CENTRE AV W

SAGEWOOD DR SW

ALLEN ST NE

W

1 AV NW

HEAD OFFICE 406 1 AVE NW

SAGEWOOD RI SW SAGEWOOD PT SW

Cool hair has never been so hot

2 AV NW

LA

RN

1994-1998

WOODSIDE RD NW

SAGEWOOD

BAYSPRINGS PA SW

3 AV NE

WILLOWBROOK

EAST LAKE BV SE

W

1 AV W

BAYSPRINGS LI SW

THE VILLAGE

4 AV NW

OO

RN

1998-2006

SAGEWOOD

TOWN & COUNTRY CENTRE

5 AV NW

BR

EC

EDOMONTON TR NE

ID

1993-2005

EAST LAKE CR NE

DS

MC CRACKEN CR NE

W

NW

OO

LO

W

HAWKEY CR NE

OLDTOWN 1993-1997

WIL

AYS CL

8 ST NW

WOODSIDE DR NW

FAIRW

SUNRIDGE

567

FLETT DR NE

Y NW 6 AV NW

WOODSIDE WOODSIDE

VETERANS BV NW

SUNRIDGE CR NW

EW

EDOMONTON TR SE

DSID

JENSEN DR NE

WOO

MORNINGSIDE CR SW

24 ST NW

VETERANS BV NW

FAIRWAYS FAIRWAYS DR SW

HIGHLAND PARK WY NE

SILVERCREEK

WOODSIDE PA NW

WOODSIDE BV NW

HIGHLAND PARK INDUSTRIAL

2

1999-2006

MSTO

2007-2018

GATEWAY

STONEGATE

WILLIA

REUNION

HAMILTON BV NE

RGE RD 11 NW

REUNION GR NW

LANARK LANDING 2020-PRESENT

LANARK LANDING KINGFISHER CRES

HILLCREST DR SW

HILLCREST HILLCREST

HILLCREST WY SW

2016-2020 T HT SW

HILLCRES

403.948.4109

202 304 Main St SE

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3

CORA BREAKFAST AND LUNCH

Not to be lost in the shadow of the more-leafy cousin, the fruit salad holds a place among the lighter side of breakfast or brunch.

Teeming with vitamins, plenty of crunch and waves of sweetness the humble fruit plate wakes the tastebuds.

Alongside a cup of steaming coffee, Cora Breakfast and Lunch serves a Mona Lisa of a fruit salad, pretty enough to hang in a gallery.

Forget the eggs, bacon and sausage, this produce gathering is the leader of the light meal, yet generously filling.

Carved fruits of several varieties cover the plate alongside two thick slices of white cheddar cheese.

Strawberries, cantaloupe, green melon, pineapple, green and red apples, kiwi, oranges, papaya, persimmon, blueberries, watermelon, grapes and banana, all carved into delightful patterns, is like eating a work of art.

A wholegrain toast on the side proved a nice platform for the savoury cheese or even a small scoop of peanut butter.

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4

ORIGINAL JOE’S

What do you do when there is only a mishmash of ingredients left in the fridge? You invent a salad for the ages.

Popular throughout the world, the Cobb salad has its origins in the 1930s at the Brown Derby restaurant where inventor Bob Cobb concocted his namesake dish out of whatever was left in the refrigerator.

The Original Joe’s contribution replicates this combination with the California Cobb dish.

All the Hollywood spotlight favourites make an appearance – chicken, cheddar, bacon, avocado, cucumber, tomato, egg and a balsamic blue cheese vinaigrette.

Sitting on a portion of crispy purple and green leaf lettuce, this is a texture triumph with crumbled bacon adding a salty crunch, and a creamy hard-boiled egg. Grated cheddar cheese and sliced chicken combine for more protein and cubed tomato and sliced cucumber add a fresh bite.

A side of vinaigrette pulls the performance together, perfect for a cool lunch on a hot California, or this case Airdrie, summer day.

5

CHERYL’S COUNTRY KITCHEN

Serving up a combination of down-home goodness and a bevy of family favourites, Cheryl’s Country Kitchen also dishes out a few nice surprises.

Among those is their Mexican-themed taco salad. A rarity outside of the fast-food industry, this south-of-the-border treat can be difficult to find.

Chopped romaine lettuce is blended with cubed tomatoes, green onions, shredded cheddar cheese, sides of sour cream and salsa plus a choice of chicken or beef protein and an option for guacamole.

These ingredients are strategically placed inside a made-in-house, puffed and flakey edible tortilla bowl. If you happened to be a rebellious child who ignored mom’s warnings of playing with your food, this is the dish for you.

The light, airy bowl is easily broken away to scoop up the filling, adding an enjoyable crunchy texture to this Mexicoquality dish.

Sombrero and mariachi music are optional, but cerveza is highly recommended.

Now open in Airdrie!

Airdrie 13-1301 8th Street SW (within bayside village) 403-980-5004 info@thebrowstudio.ca

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6

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THE CHOPPED LEAF

What’s that old saying, you can have it your way?

No, I’m not talking about burgers, but a salad place with options in abundance.

As expected, The Chopped Leaf designed a menu with plenty of green, plus some red, yellow, orange and a few other colours of the rainbow.

Bowls, sandwiches, wraps, quesadillas and full salads can be massaged for any tastebuds. Their Bangkok salad combines diced red and yellow peppers with sliced red onions, crunchy edamame beans and peanuts, a touch of cilantro and even a small dose of chow mein noodles for a bit of carbs.

Options are abundant, from eggs to avocado, grilled chicken to lemon-dill tuna, vegetarian offerings and many more. A handful of warm prawns play nicely with the Thailand theme and an evil peanut dressing adds a touch of spice for a pleasing after burn.

All presented in an angled bowl this salad central restaurant gets right to the leaf of the matter.

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7

ALEXANDER’S STEAKHOUSE & PIZZARIA

Ah, the white-sand beaches, salty ocean air and the sidewalk cafes serving up fresh vegetables and flavours of Grecian cuisine makes one dream of heatfilled nights.

While I reminisce of times on Crete and other Greek islands, that bubble bursts quickly on a snowy April afternoon.

That doesn’t stop the cravings for a famous Greek dish and Alexander’s Steakhouse & Pizzaria has the answer for my cheese-salad hankerings.

Everything is better with a little feta. This chunky vegetable recipe has plenty of the salty, scrumptious cheese layered on a bed of cucumbers, green peppers, red onions and ripe tomatoes.

An authentic Greek herb-laden dressing, slightly vinegary and a little sweet, pulls the plate together for a satisfying, full meal.

Close your eyes and you can almost summon a roadside cafe, ocean breeze and a bit of bouzouki music floating through the air. At the very least it distracts from an unsettling, unseasonable snowy spring day.

8

INSPECTIONS DIAGNOSTICS MAINTENANCE OIL CHANGES TUNE UP TIRES STEERING SHOCKS ALIGNMENTS BRAKES&MORE!

THE WOODS RESTAURANT

There’s nothing like being on the green in one; one order that is.

Situated in the heart of Airdrie, just a short drive will get you to The Woods Restaurant. On the Woodside Golf Course grounds, you can lay up on this 19th-hole clubhouse where the greens are measured in large serving bowls.

With a good range of tasty options on the menu, pin seekers will find their signature salad combining crispy slivered carrots, diced cucumbers, grape tomato, dried cranberries, walnuts, savoury feta cheese, mixed greens and even garlic toast.

A nice approach to a flavourful lunch, The Woods even putts around the idea of offering many different dressings like raspberry, Italian, creamy blue cheese and many more.

An addition of steak, grilled chicken or garlic shrimp make for a full-round dish that is both light and filling.

Good to the last leaf, this salad is definitely par for the course. life

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403.948.0400 145 East Lake Blvd NE

FIRST & MAIN FINANCIAL SERVICES INC

WATERMELON SALAD INGREDIENTS -1/3 cup Extra virgin olive oil -1 small sweet onion, cut into -3 tbsp lemon juice

1/2-inch dice

-2 tsp salt

-1 cup chopped mint leaves

-1 tsp Tabasco -1/2 tsp pepper

DIRECTIONS

-One 8-pound seedless

In a large bowl, whisk the oil,

watermelon, scooped into

lemon juice, salt, Tabasco

balls with a melon baller or

and pepper.

cut, (10 cups), chilled,

Add the watermelon, feta,

-1/2 pound feta, crumbled

olives and onion , toss gently.

-1 1/4 cups pitted kalamata

Garnish with the mint and

chopped (optional)

serve.

1. Does my investment strategy match my goals?

TOP 5 FINACIAL QUESTIONS YOU WON'T REGRET ASKING IN 2022

2. How am I financially protecting my loved ones?

3. Are my estate plans and beneficiaries up to date?

4. Is there a way to reduce my income taxes?

5. Do I know what my income will look like in retirement?

Kate Norris | B.A., CHS, QAFP™ Financial Planner kate.norris@sunlife.com 403- 470- 8832 Genna Bey | Associate Advisor Genna.m.Bey@sunlife.com 403- 473- 4848 202-120 2nd Ave NE, Airdrie, AB.

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THE PRESCRIPTION

FOR BOREDOM

parentlife

“I’M BORED.” Every parent dreads this phrase.

WITH MICHELLE TASA

ALL ABOARD!!

OPEN TO THE PUBLIC, SUNDAYS - FROM VICTORIA DAY LONG WEEKEND TO THANKSGIVING.

The park is operated by the Alberta Model Engineering Society a volunteer organization whose members want to share their hobby and the awesomeness of trains with children of all ages. Stop in for a picnic, a train journey, or a walk around the grounds. For $3 per person you can enjoy a journey on the miniature railway. Birthdays and special events can be booked online or at the park.

Visit ironhorsepark.net or call 403-948-2601 for more info.

W

e cringe to hear it uttered because it comes with an expectation that we, the adult, will repair this situation somehow.

The expectation is that we will restore fun and wonder to the lives of our children.

But what do you think about the idea that we are harming our children when we become The Boredom Fixers?

Let me explain. Creativity, innovation, ingenuity – all arise from need.

Inventions address problems. New ideas form when the old way of doing things no longer works.

Boredom is a problem that can lead to a wealth of creativity and innovative thinking.

When confronted with boredom, children need to practice filling their time by inventing games, building structures, creating performances or exploring their environments. If you think back to your childhood, when technology was far less pervasive, you will likely recall experiences like this.

Join us for drop-in sessions or register for a class.

All ages are welcome!

Offering Daycare, Full/Half Day Preschool, Full-Day Jr.K, Full-Day Kindergarten and Grades 1-8 in Airdrie ● Small Class Sizes ● Private & Accredited ● Alberta Education Certified ● Before & After School Care ● Sibling/family discounts ● Summer Camps/Childcare

PH O N E : EMAIL:

www.artpouringsstudio.com

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New Horizon Mall

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587 500 3403

WEB

403-912-1133 enrolment@atlaslearningacademy.com atlaslearningacademy.com

Technology (which I love, don’t get me wrong) has shortened our attention spans and made it much more difficult to wait in silence, in boredom. Children need times when they are confronted with the challenge of amusing themselves to balance that. Boxes become spaceships, and towels become costumes. Children learn that they have the power to create and imagine.

Not everyone understands the value gained from unstructured play. When we jump in to save children from boredom, we undermine the critical work of problem-solving that happens in that space. The skills developed in this way are in high demand in our society. Companies hire people who can look at a situation and see possibilities instead of limitations. They look for people who can imagine different ways of doing things.

Creativity is found in those awkward spaces of boredom. All we need to do as parents is to step back and avoid the urge to solve the problem for our children. life Michelle Tasa has a BE and BA and is the owner of Artpourings Studio in Airdrie

YOU KNOW AN AWESOME KID

GROUP FITNESS CYCLE. STRENGTH. CARDIO. YOGA. DANCE FITNESS. genesisplace.ca Register at www.volunteerairdrie.ca today

NOMINATE THEM TODAY! Our special recognition program for Airdrie youth is accepting nominations until Sept 30, 2022.

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We create VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES to address community needs and to INSPIRE YOUTH for a lifetime commitment to service. Join us weekly for projects that will make POSITIVE CHANGE. S U M M E R 2022

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GREY MATTER WE’VE ALL BEEN THERE

A

seniorlife

couple of weeks ago, my 12-year-old grandson came for a sleepover. We found ourselves at the checkout for some essential supplies: Dr. Pepper, cool ranch Doritos, popcorn and M&Ms. As I’m paying, I’m also rummaging madly in my purse, in my jacket pockets and my trusty reusable grocery bag.

“Grandma.”

Not paying attention, I finish paying and faintly hear, “Grandma!” I glance quickly and he’s pointing to the top of his head, smiling. He’s seen this many times before.

I reach to the top of my head, and yup, there they are. Duh! Oh, sure, we laugh about walking into a room and not remembering why we’re there. We giggle when our friend tells us she’s lost her car keys … and has to call you back, the chagrin in her voice when she does and jangles the keys in our ear.

Forgetfulness. It’s a real thing. Partly because we never had problems remembering things before: errands, appointments, dates, phone numbers. Can you imagine calling anyone now without auto dial? And let’s not get started on passwords.

Well, according to the U.S. National Library of Medicine, there’s an actual name for it. “Age-associated memory loss.”

It is characterized by self perception of memory loss and a standardized memory test score showing a decline in objective memory performance. What a mouthful!

Apparently, 40 per cent of people 65 and over experience it. Less than one per cent will progress to dementia per year.

It’s normal. Normal to go to the wrong Tim Horton’s to meet a friend for coffee. Normal to leave conditioner in your hair after showering. And definitely normal to remember your tax form in the top drawer when you arrive at H&R Block for your appointment.

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Rates Starting at $1650

Spend your retirement years with us.

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For more information contact us at 403-945-4700 or info@luxstone.com 38

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While we can’t get some of those pesky cells back, we can maintain a healthy brain by sleeping well, reducing stress, eating properly and keeping active. Right now, Canada can boast having the fourth-longest life expectancy in the world, at 81. And for the first time, there are more of us around than there are under 15-year-olds.

Which gives us a kind of superiority, don’t you think? We should be able to claim a little more airtime, so to speak.

My uncle, (we’ll call him Tom … cuz that’s his name and I don’t want to forget!) has lots to say about this aging thing. He’s 81 after all.

He believes we forget because we’ve crammed so much stuff in our grey matter over the years, there just can’t be room for all of it. He also has come to believe that one missed appointment does not a failed life make.

So let’s keep playing Words With Friends.

Let’s pay attention when our grandkid teaches us how to use the new International Space Station app. And definitely bring on pickleball! life

“Forgetfulness.

It’s a real thing.”

G R E AT L I F E | G U E ST C O L U M N

seniorlife

WITH BIANCA BEDFORD

M

any senior care homes are putting a focus on person-centred living – but what exactly does person-centred living mean – and what does it actually look like?

In the past several years, many care home providers have been moving away from traditional care models for a more holistic and individual approach – one that focuses on home-like living and a collaborative approach to decision-making that involves the resident, family and care provider.

This allows the resident to feel empowered about decisions involving their care, fosters relationships between the resident and care provider, and maximizes the resident’s independence.

Person-centred living can look different depending on the care home, and what level of care is being provided. Regardless of the home, personcentred living should consider the following: •Flexibility/options regarding pricing, meals, suite amenities; •Integrating a resident’s likes/dislikes into their care plan, with a focus on resident-directed decision making; •Creating a recreation program that incorporates all aspects of a resident’s well-being such as fitness classes, games/activities, spirituality supports etc., and that accommodates all residents, regardless of their limitations; •Creating communities with a more home-like feeling (e.g., plenty of outdoor space, family/ visiting areas, etc.); •Honouring a resident’s wishes surrounding end-of-life care.

Ultimately, person-centred living can create a very satisfying aging experience for those who reside in senior living and/or care home environments. There is immense value in knowing that seniors can live their best lives, while being honoured as individuals. life Bianca Bedford is general manager at The Hamlets at Cedarwood Station

PERSONCENTRED LIVING tour

Cedarwood Station Independent Senior Living in the Heart of Airdrie

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G R E AT L I F E | C O L U M N

petlife

WITH DONNA BARRETT

“Your puppy or dog needs the same care and duty you would give a child”

10 QUESTIONS Y Essential knowledge when hiring a trainer or walker for your dog

our puppy or dog needs the same care and duty you would give a child when researching care. Why? Because your companion animal is voiceless, trusting and, therefore, vulnerable. Luckily, Airdrie is rich in certified dog trainers and qualified walkers.

Need support with your dog?

Call Now for coaching & training

Here are the critical questions you need to have answered when hiring a professional dog trainer or walker: 1. What education and experience does the professional have? You want the answer to be they are trained in and use humane and science-based methods. Anyone using the terms ”alpha,” “dominance,” “pack theory,” or equipment such as shock, prong or choke collars is not educated in canine behaviour science. They should also be certified in pet first aid as a minimum.

2. What Professional Certifications have they achieved? Their answer will include some form of common certification (letters behind their name). You can do a Google search to find out what all those letters mean.

3. What training methods and walk management approach do they use? See answer to question number 1.

403.477.2710

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4. What professional memberships do they maintain? Look for a FEAR FREE certification as a minimum.

5. What insurance do they carry? PROfur is the most common insurance for the dog service industry, but if your dog is being transported, the professional needs to have separate vehicle or business insurance that covers your dog while in their vehicle.

6. Do they have a recent RCMP “Vulnerable Sector” Check?

7. What are their protocols in case of accident or injury to your dog? See answers to questions 1 and 5.

8. What breed knowledge and experience do they have with your dog’s breed and or behaviours?

Private Training Donna Barrett, CPDT-KA Certified professional dog trainer - knowledge assessed

9. Can you speak with other clients and do reference checks? In what types of scenarios do they refer out to another dog professional? The answer shows adherence to an ethical code and good standing amongst their peers and colleagues. life

politepupstraining.com 403-980-1281

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Donna Barrett, CPDT-KA, is owner/trainer at Polite Pups Training

S U M M E R 2022

homelife

IDEAS AND ADVICE FOR YOUR HOME, INSIDE AND OUT

48 42 LIVE IN LANARK | 44 BUY ONLINE | 46 OUTDOOR LIVING

HOMELIFE | BUILDER PROFILE

Find your new home in

Lanark Landing

STORY BY PATRICIA MERRICK

T

hose looking to purchase a new home this summer might want to check out what Homes by Avi has to offer in Lanark Landing.

Whether you’re looking to buy your first home, upgrade or downsize, Homes by Avi is currently building options for all life stages, according to Doug Beach, the company’s senior vice president of housing for Alberta.

The Calgary-based company is building duplexes and bungalows, as well as a variety of single-family front-drive two-storey homes ranging from 1,800 to 2,500 square feet, in Lanark Landing, located near King’s Heights on the east side of Airdrie.

“Buyers of these homes, they’re looking to purchase their first family home, their first move-up home. Maybe they’ve already had a kid and they have a growing family, as well as looking to upgrade and move to a brand-new home in a new community,” Beach says.

“We have a lot of people that want that double front-drive home that they’ve always wanted to have, so we do offer that.”

The company is building duplexes from 1,300 to 1,600 square feet with different layouts from which to choose, including a variety of kitchen options, open main floor plans, oversized windows and upper-floor bonus rooms. There is also an option to add a

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separate entrance to the basement and a rear double-car garage, which provides some privacy from backyard neighbours.

“They’re semi-detached homes but they are functioning like a well-sized single-family home, without the added cost of a single-family home,” Beach says. “Our semi-detached homes are very popular, especially with customers who are looking to downsize or young families and first-time homebuyers.”

Homes by Avi has already built more than 50 semi-detached homes in Lanark Landing. Semi-detached homes start in the $400,000s and single-family front-drive homes start in the $600,000s.

“We don’t build custom homes but you can personalize the models that we do have, and this ensures that all the items on the homebuyers’ wish lists are met,” Beach says. “We have a selection centre where you get your very own interior designer who helps you personalize your home. We give an allowance for people to spend at the selection centre to get them going. There’s thousands of different options for cabinet doors, countertops, any hardware – our selection centre is an experience in itself.”

Lanark Landing is a Melcor development and features green spaces, a community garden centre, playgrounds, a half basket-

“We’re not just a homebuilder, we’re also part of the community”

ball court, ice skating rink and outdoor gathering spaces with picnic tables and walking paths. The community offers large lots, including 32-footwide and 34-foot-wide lots that are approximately 110 feet long, according to Beach.

“You do get more home for your money than you would, say, in Calgary, which is why you’re getting Calgarians moving to a satellite community, which is what we would call Airdrie,” Beach says.

The company has also built homes in King’s Heights and Cooper’s Crossing.

“We’re huge ambassadors of Airdrie so we’re always promoting the community and trying to get involved in any of the organizations that we can. We’re not just a homebuilder, we’re also part of the community.” life S U M M E R 2022

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HOMELIFE | BUILDER PROFILE

BUYING A HOME ONLINE? “What really sets us apart is actually the customer experience”

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STORY BY PATRICIA MERRICK

hane Homes is offering a new option for its customers to purchase a home online through the company’s popular Build & Price program.

“People can actually put offers on homes and buy them online without coming into a showhome,” says Melanie Gowans, general manager of sales and marketing for Shane Homes. “We’ll be the first builder in North America to do it so it’s a really big deal.”

The Build & Price program was introduced in the summer of 2021 and allows customers to go onto Shane Homes’ website to build the home they want and get a price so they can find out what they can afford without even talking to anyone.

“Our No. 1 question, especially through live chat, was, ‘What is the price?’” Gowans says. “I think that people were really tired of seeing signage saying, ‘from the low $400,000s,’ so we wanted to get more specific with pricing and be more transparent. It has been very well received; now we’re just taking the next steps.”

The program allows customers to choose a community and then pick from the most popular models available, which can also be customized. With the new Buy Now option, once they finish their build and get a price, they can make an offer for Shane Homes to accept, reject or counter. Once the offer is accepted, the customer can scan their identification, provide a deposit and upload their mortgage instructions right online.

Customers still have the option to review everything in person as well.

“It doesn’t replace the customer service experience that they would receive from the area manager. It’s just that we’re removing those administrative steps to get the lot and to get the deal done and then from there the process would be exactly the same,” Gowans says. “We’re just adding this as an option.”

Shane Homes is currently building in Midtown and Cobblestone Creek. Gowans says some of the most popular options customers are choosing are kitchen upgrades, additional main floor bedrooms with full bathrooms, and side entries so they can develop the basement for an in-law.

“There’s multi-generational families purchasing a lot right now so that’s really helpful for them,” she says.

Customers are also choosing to add more office space, a larger garage, a deck and upgrades to master bathrooms. Gowans says the Build & Price program has allowed Shane Homes to see what customers are choosing for their builds and consider adding it as an option for other models.

The builder takes pride in its quality homes and customer service and wants to make the process of purchasing a home as easy as possible for customers, she adds.

“What really sets us apart is actually the customer experience,” Gowans says. “We’re actually being super transparent and doing what other companies are not doing by putting everything out there and giving customers all the information that they want up front. We’re not making them jump through hoops to get it and I think that’s a true indication that we’re very committed to the customer experience. life

S U M M E R 2022

H O M E L I F E | G U E ST C O L U M N

financiallife

Love is grand; divorce is a hundred grand

WITH CHRISTIE MOSER

D

ivorce. There’s a lot of emotional baggage tied to that word. It can leave a person emotionally raw and financially disadvantaged.

You may have seen these cheeky memes circulating on social media. ‘Love is grand. Divorce is a hundred grand.’ Or maybe you’ve heard this one: ‘At least the divorce is cheaper than the wedding.’

Funny; not funny. Especially if you are parents desperately trying to figure out how you are going to transition to two households, perhaps on one income. Or you are near retirement and wondering how your decision to separate might impact the lifestyle you have worked so hard to achieve.

There’s a reason jokes trigger reactions. It’s because of the ring of truth behind them. And unfortunately, the reality is that too many divorces take years and cost potentially hundreds of thousands of dollars in legal bills. Many people might believe that numbers like those only apply to the rich and famous. Unfortunately, the statistics indicate otherwise.

Several legal surveys have shown that the average cost of an uncontested divorce in Canada can be between $4,800 and $6,800 per person. However, a contested divorce can start at $24,000 and depending on the circumstances, costs for divorce above $150,000 per person are not uncommon in middle-class cases where there are financial disputes.

And it’s not just the legal bills. Separation and divorce are a unique transition time where uncertainty and emotions can get in the way of making wise financial decisions.

When the decision to divorce is the right option, it is comforting to know that there are supports available to ensure better outcomes for families. Fortunately, more affordable alternative dispute resolution services are on the rise. Driven by a passion to help, mediators and financial divorce specialists are at the forefront of that movement to change the way divorce happens. life C

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Christie Moser, CPA, CA is a chartered financial divorce specialist and the owner of Fairway Divorce Solutions locations in Airdrie, Cochrane and Calgary

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HOMELIFE | COLUMN

OUTDOOR LIVING decorlife

WITH KIM PURVIS

“When you’re considering the location of your furnishings pay attention to how you might take advantage of a view, path to the house or creating some backyard privacy”

O

utdoor living has always been novel in our short summer months, but over the past couple years outdoor entertaining has become really special. Because of the rise in popularity of outdoor living spaces, items like furniture, barbecues and fire tables can be tough to find and receive before the leaves start to change. I’ve compiled a few suggestions to help you plan your outdoor living space thoughtfully and avoid those spur-of-the-moment shopping mistakes.

An average-sized deck or patio is likely to suit one type of sitting area, whether it be dining, lounging or chairs around a fire table. Really consider how you enjoy relaxing outdoors. If you eat all your family dinners outside on a beautiful evening you’re more likely to make use of a dining table and chairs, but for those who envision long nights visiting over a glass of wine, perhaps a sofa and comfy chairs around a fire table makes more sense. Both have their advantages. My caution is to avoid over-crowding the space in order to accommodate all types of seating.

Use your space well. If you’re fortunate enough to have a larger space, create zones or individual ‘rooms.’ It really cozies up each seating arrangement.

When you’re considering the location of your furnishings pay attention to how you might take advantage of a view, path to the house or creating some backyard privacy. There are so many beautiful privacy screen options that this can become a beautiful focal point on it’s own. Screens can also be effective at cutting the wind, which can be a mood killer when you’re sitting outside.

Our weather can be unpredictable. As lovely as the appearance of a cute outdoor sitting area can be, resist the urge to buy the cheaply made furniture that will wear poorly and become an eyesore. Read reviews; consider products that are rated to handle our climate. Regardless of the price you pay, ensure everything is tied down securely lest your outdoor living room end up in your neighbour’s yard, upside down.

Finally, just like inside your home, small added touches like area rugs, throw pillows and ambient lighting can really cozy up your space. Often the little details need to be stored indoors or a cute outdoor storage bin, but they’re worth the effort to enjoy a long, warm summer evening with friends. Don’t forget to consider some type of heat source when the evenings turn chilly – overhead propane heaters, propane stand heaters and fire tables are all effective in creating just enough warmth to keep everyone comfortable.

However you choose to enjoy your outdoor living quarters, I hope we’ll all appreciate the gift of gathering together and the little things, like long visits on the deck late into a summer night. life

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HOMELIFE | COLUMN

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realestatelife

WITH SHILO STOREY

A

re you keeping up with the real estate market? Phew, it is a complex one right now! Every month brings new aspects for both buyers and sellers to navigate.

As summer is upon us, we will see lots of people moving and taking possession of their new homes.

New neighbours are new opportunities for friends, so get out and say hello; show them that living in Airdrie, and in your neighbourhood, was a good choice! So many of the people that are moving into new homes are coming from outside of the province and are looking to build a life for their families because our community is a great opportunity for that. They just didn’t know how great we were until recently. We have known we were great for a while … right?!

If you are looking to make a move or get into the market here is what you need to know about recent buyers. Buyers are becoming better equipped to go a little slower, as they have more inventory to choose from. They have more time to be more conscientious in their decisions. With interest rates increasing they are opting to take their time with their rate holds and shopping around a little bit more than what we saw in the first quarter of the year.

Sellers are liking that prices are still increasing, and that our benchmark price has increased to $480,600, which is a year-over-year increase of 29 per cent. All sectors of housing are doing well, but the detached market is still seeing the highest gains in prices at 33 per cent year over year.

What sellers are noticing is that the traffic through their homes isn’t always what they expect. Sometimes they must wait a week for the right buyer to come along, sometimes they still get multiple offers in the first few days.

What do we know for sure about real estate?

You can still afford to get into the market here in Airdrie! Each home and week are different for anyone in the current market to navigate. So, breathe in the sunshine, enjoy the longer days and get out and meet all the great new people and opportunities in our awesome city! life Shilo Storey is a Realtor with RE/MAX First

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Discover Crossfield MCKEE HOMES | HOMES BY DREAM 126 Amery Crescent, Crossfield, Alberta 201 Vista Drive, Crossfield, Alberta

Prices and specifications are subject to change without notice. E. & O.E.

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H O M E L I F E | S H OW H O M E S

HOMES BY AVI - JEFFERSON IN LANARK LANDING This showhome’s decor was inspired by Japandi style, which is a mixture of Scandinavian and modern Japanese interiors. We focused on keeping this home bright and modern. To achieve this, we incorporated smooth elements, visible in the stonework on the fireplace and in the coffee tables. We also added some warmth by using textures in the textiles and lighting. Pops of navy blue were added for visual interest and to add a playful and fun element to the space.

THE GREAT ROOM EXCEL HOMES - NEWBROOK IN CHINOOK GATE A little daring, a little serenity. The Newbrook explores the adventurous side of residential design. Inspired by the well-travelled family home with a pop of geometric patterns in both the interior selections and soft furnishings, and finished with an eclectic collection of art and decor throughout.

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Check out a few of the really great, GREAT rooms Airdrie builders are creating for your next home

airdrielife.com || SSUUM airdrielife.com MM MEERR 2022 2022

EYMERIC WIDLING PHOTO

Shane Homes – Manhattan lll in Midtown The coastal-themed great room in the Manhattan III showhome radiates charm with soft blue, light grey and white tones that emulate the feeling of water. Both the natural engineered hardwood and driftwood accent tables add warm organic elements to the cool-toned furniture palette.

A stunning electric fireplace with a custom MDF mantle and marble tile surround is the focal point of the room. Printed coastal photography flanking the fireplace is highlighted nicely by two picture lights.

There is plenty of room to entertain family and friends with this spacious, openconcept great room that flows right into both the kitchen and the nook.

MCKEE HOMES - FERNHILL IN COOPER’S CROSSING Transitional design may be your style if you find traditional design too ornate but contemporary is out of your comfort zone. Simplified curves play off its traditional roots, without the ornate detail. The comfort and coziness make the transitional style inviting and livable.

Transitional interiors keep accessories to a minimum and let the furniture and the textiles do the talking. Starting with a neutral color palette as a base, and adding visual interest with small pops of colour and plenty of texture and pattern, using area rugs, throw pillows, and blankets to accessorize. The occasional traditional light fixture or contemporary coffee table create the perfect balance.

HARDER HOMES - COOPER’S CROSSING Open concept living at its finest! This great room masterfully connects the entire main floor all while providing functional space to bring families together. The open-to-above ceiling with upper catwalk provides splendid views of the home and floor-to-wall windows allow for an abundance of natural light. Loaded with features including full-height stone fireplace and coffered ceiling, this great room is truly great!

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VISTA CROSSING BY DREAM (CROSSFIELD) MCKEE HOMES IN VISTA CROSSING WILDFLOWER BY MINTO (COMING SOON) SHANE HOMES IN MIDTOWN GENESIS BUILDERS IN BAYVIEW MCKEE HOMES IN BAYSIDE MCKEE HOMES IN CHINOOK GATE CALBRIDGE HOMES IN BAYVIEW

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9. EXCEL HOMES IN CHINOOK GATE 10. COBBLESTONE BY MELCOR (COMING SOON) 11. COOPER’S CROSSING BY WESTMARK 12. HARDER HOMES IN COOPER’S CROSSING 13. LANARK LANDING BY MELCOR 14. HOMES BY AVI IN LANARK

worklife

MEET THE MOVERS, SHAKERS AND BUSINESS MAKERS

54 52 RV DREAMING | 56 ICE TRAINERS | 59 SMART STARTS

HOMELIFE | COLUMN

businesslife

WITH SHAUNA QUINN

A home away from home

I

AIRDRIE TOP DESTINATION FOR ALL RV NEEDS

t’s what many of us look forward to when the warm weather hits: packing up a laundry list of supplies and wiggly children to hit the open road for summer.

Halfway to the destination, you’ll remember you left the marshmallows on the counter. Picking up a couple more treats or an extra roll of toilet paper, there’s never a shortage of reasons to make a quick trip back to civilization. After all, camping can bring both family and friends together with shared experience of both joy and some light suffering – be it limited showers, circumventing Alberta’s fickle weather or keeping those munchkins busy.

That’s where Airdrie comes in.

Our city has made itself the destination for finding a home on wheels, and a place for families to stop in and take a breather at any of our local parks, take part in festivals and events or grab a cold one on the patio.

With six RV centres, Airdrie has become a regional hub for trailer services, supplies and rentals.

RV there yet?

Western RV Country offers one of the largest inventories of pre-owned RVs in Canada – priced for every budget.

“We came to Airdrie over 20 years ago and other dealer groups have followed. Many Albertan campers travel through Airdrie on a daily basis, so the location is very ideal,” says Brandon Urban, sales manager at Western RV Country.

Also on Airdrie’s east side is Traveland RV Supercentre. The company is one of the largest RV dealers in Canada with more than 1,000 RVs in stock and 70 service technicians. They are currently building a 16,000square-foot showroom to accompany their 12-acre site with a 22-bay service shop.

Field of RV Dreams and RV Nation will trade, buy or sell your RV and

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handle all of the legal paperwork for you. For RV owners in need of repair, Swift RV Repairs, Lone Pine RV and Dandy Auto Marine RV promise to get you on the road again as fast as possible.

If purchasing an RV just isn’t in the budget, Fraserway RV is a national dealership that offers a gallery of RVs available to rent, including one-way opportunities for those looking to explore coast to coast.

A good home is where you park it Airdrie couple Maud Hebert and Simon Breton have travelled across Alberta with their micro teardrop trailer. Their Instagram, happy_yyc_ campers, details the adventures they take while living the RV life. “[Airdrie has] a wide variety of sellers and brands. Even rare brands like our Little Guy Trailer,” says Breton.

“I like to have a variety of dealers nearby, as I do customize my trailer a lot and always need parts.”

They say sprucing up your own camper can be as easy as adding a few lights for ambience, purchasing some good quality lawn chairs and of course, packing a good selection of board games. All items are available in Airdrie RV centres, or can be found nearby in some of the quaint and unique stores dotted along Kingsview Boulevard. “[Camping allows you] to break the routine, relax and relieve stress. It’s very good for your mental health and mood. It allows you to spend more quality time with family and friends. To enjoy a campfire. The food is much better cooked on the fire,” Breton says.

Wherever summer takes you, and whatever you need for your RV adventure, find it with a summer stop in Airdrie.

Including the marshmallows. life Plan your staycation or summer stop in Airdrie this summer: airdrie.ca/visit Shauna Quinn is a tourism development officer with the City of Airdrie

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W O R K L I F E | L E G AC Y B U S I N E SS

Keeping Airdrie

COMFORTABLE A STORY BY PATRICIA MERRICK | PHOTO BY SERGEI BELSKI

irdrie Air Ltd. Heating and Air Conditioning is celebrating 20 years in business this year and continues to thrive, adapt and grow with the community.

The family-run business carries high standards and regularly provides training for its technicians to keep their skills top-notch, according to owner Jason Genovy. He established the business after working for one of the largest companies globally for heating and air conditioning but wasn’t happy with the company’s policy on customer service. He lived in Airdrie and loved the community, so he thought it was a good place to set up shop and run things how he wanted to.

“We’re never the cheapest company out there because we believe in constant training with our staff and providing the best quality products with the industry’s best warranties. We back this up with our 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, five-star service,” Genovy says.

The company does residential and commercial work in Airdrie, Crossfield and some of Rocky View County. The shop is located on East Lake Boulevard and has 11 staff members. Genovy says he has hired more people over the years to keep up with the growth in Airdrie.

Over the last 20 years, Airdrie Air has survived highs and lows for which no business owner can prepare, including hur-

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dles caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. In the last two years, the pandemic has caused many Airdrie businesses to struggle, with some having to close their doors and others slammed with shipping delays and issues receiving products. Airdrie Air has been struggling with supply chain issues but has been able to find alternative solutions for customers, according to Genovy.

“We’ve had to lend out electric heaters multiple times to get customers going because we could not get the parts from the manufacturers,” he says. “We would just set up the heaters to get them heat so they wouldn’t freeze until we could get their parts in and get them fixed up. It didn’t matter what brand or make – all of them had problems getting in parts.”

With many people working from home during the heat of the pandemic, there was an increase in demand for air conditioners.

“People are used to having air conditioning in their cars and their offices where they normally work, and then they come home at the end of the day when it starts to cool off,” Genovy says. “But now, when people are working from their homes, they find out how hot it is to work … during the day so it’s definitely increased our air conditioning dramatically.

“Last year, we had the hottest summer of all time combined with the biggest air conditioning shortage of all time, so we were doomed from the beginning of last year to keep up.”

The company brought in as many air conditioners as it could, but it didn’t take long to sell out.

“We had hundreds of customers calling that we could never provide air conditioners for,” Genovy says. “So, when that season ended last year, I was already ordering for the next season ahead, which is a lot tougher on smaller companies because you have to pre-spend a lot more.”

When the provincial government started shutting businesses down and enforcing restrictions on Albertans when it came to leaving their homes, Airdrie Air was deemed an essential service. Genovy says his employees worked through the pandemic and put their own lives at risk to keep customers comfortable in their homes.

“We had to keep going through this all. So, from start to finish, we haven’t stopped,” he says. “The challenges were the unknown factors – we didn’t know if we were going to die from COVID in the beginning or what it was going to do.

We went into peoples’ homes no matter what and helped them out through the time in need. I’m really proud of the team that we’ve got here that went above and beyond.”

Genovy also maintains community involvement in Airdrie, whether it’s helping out with Operation Christmas Child, collecting food for Airdrie Food Bank or donating an air conditioner to the Airdrie Boys and Girls Club.

“It’s important to help out the community – especially when people are in need,” he says. life

“It’s important to help out the community – especially when people are in need”

Our annual ARTS ISSUE

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From Our Pasture to Your Plate!

Premium Beef, Chicken, Pork, Free Range Eggs, DamitAmit Meals, Treager & much more!

Airdrie Didsbury Meat Shop: Butcher Shop: 13085 Twp RD 274 2103 20 St Rocky View, AB Didsbury, AB 403-899-7634 403-335-0007

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WORKLIFE | SPORTBIZ

Explosive Edge SHARPENING THE SKILLS OF AIRDRIE’S YOUTH STORY BY JOSIE RANDALL | PHOTO BY SERGEI BELSKI

I

t’s been more than a decade since Chris and Kim Bergman opened the doors of Explosive Edge.

They had dreams of creating a space in Airdrie where athletes of all kinds would walk in and go “woah, this is where I need to be.”

Since then, the sports development training complex has had close to 10,000 athletes come through its doors, including Canadian professional ice hockey forward Ty Rattie and goaltender Aaron Dell for off-season training.

“Airdrie has a huge hockey population, and there’s a lack of hockey-specific training available to them. So we felt the need to create a kind of a premier hockey development agency,” Chris says.

“We also felt the city needed more of a focused approach for youth sports. My wife and I are both elementary-stream teachers, so we can help athletes learn those foundational skills. Teaching sport at such a young age really does need experienced introduction and energy.”

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DOUBLE WHAMMY Explosive Edge trains athletes as young as two, all the way up to adults. They primarily train hockey, but have programs for baseball, lacrosse, tennis, golf and skating.

Before the COVID-19 pandemic, Chris says, they were expanding so rapidly they were moving into a new facility and opening up a batting cage.

“We were shut down for quite a while. We were in a unique circumstance in which we were not only the fitness sector, but we were also the arena and recreation sector. We were kind of hit with a double whammy,” Chris says.

“We had to be fluid with whatever scenario the government put us in. There were times when that building was empty and it was quite a lonely place, [given] it was designed for kids to come and play.” Chris says they adapted by introducing one-on-one training, and changing team programming into development programming because of capacity limitations.

The Bergmans are now looking forward to getting back up and running to pre-pandemic levels, including bringing back tournaments and some shimmy sessions for everyone to enjoy on Fridays.

“We really diversified, and had to think creatively. It was a rough time for us but we pulled through. Seeing how happy the kids were training with us, I think definitely motivated us to keep going,” says Chris.

“The real foundation of what we do is a commitment in sharing a passion for sport”

STILL GOING STRONG Over the years, Chris says, seeing Explosive Edge give people another dimension to their athleticism has been very rewarding, whether that be watching an athlete become a top scorer, or becoming close friends with those on a team.

“The real foundation of what we do is a commitment in sharing a passion for sport. Encouraging kids to participate, be active and be a part of a team. There’s a lot of character that comes with being part of a team,” says Chris.

That commitment is why Explosive Edge partnered with Airdrie’s Kalix Legacy Foundation.

Every year, the Foundation covers anywhere from 50 per cent to 100 per cent of the fees and equipment costs depending on the program or training, the athlete’s financial situation and available funds.

“At the end of the day we try to share a mentality with parents that … although every child might not go into the NHL, they deserve the opportunity to be the best that they can,” says Chris.

“I have an appreciation for parents allowing us to be a part of their child’s development.

I think that speaks volumes to the passion we have for sports development in youth. We are still here despite some hiccups; we’re going strong, and we’re excited to continue seeing new generations come through our doors.” life

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Action through Connection: If you own a business, or are a business leader, you have a tremendous impact on the growth and wellbeing of our community. The Airdrie Chamber of Commerce recognizes that by working together and championing local business, we will build a stronger Airdrie. The Airdrie Chamber (AC) is a dynamic, professional organization that provides value to our members and is an advocate for all business. Not only do we create worthwhile connections between our members, we connect members to new clients, and business to government. The Chamber works together with our members to improve the economic, civic, and cultural wellbeing of our community.

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Our goal is always to get you back to the activities you love and empower you to prevent recurrences of pain or injury. Your physiotherapist will develop a custom plan based on your specific injury, limitations, and personal goals. All our consultations are one on one and consist of a range of techniques including • Cupping • Soft tissue massage • Ultrasound • Joint mobilizations • TENS • Acupuncture • Heat or Ice • IMS (Intramuscular • Personalized Stimulation also known Home Programs as dry needling or • Education to help you trigger point take control dry needling) of your injury • Graston© The PhysioWorks team recognize that whatever your injury or condition, it is likely affecting your quality of life and preventing you from doing the things you want to do. Our goal is to help you recover so you can regain your quality of life, and we will tailor your treatment plan to facilitate that goal. of sports, occupational • Improve mobility (WCB), neck, back, • Improve strength muscle, and motor • Reduce pain and vehicle accident injuries restore normal mobility • Headache treatment in orthopedic • Increase activity level conditions • Help with long term • Prevention of disability conditions future injuries • Injury management At PhysioWorks, we are here to help you through every step of your recovery process. Our success is dependent upon your success, and we strive to create a warm, welcoming environment in which you can achieve your rehabilitation goals comfortably and confidently! We’ll be delighted to meet with you and develop a personalized treatment plan for your path toward healing and pain relief.

Your Airdrie Chamber of Commerce www.airdriechamber.ab.ca

W O R K L I F E | STA R T I N G O U T

2020 PHOTOS BY KRISTY REIMER

BEING AN ENTREPRENEUR IS A TOUGH, BUT IMPORTANT, JOB.

Small business is big in Canada, accounting for 99.8 per cent of all businesses. While it is the engine of our economy, the profession is both rewarding and challenging.

MENTORS AT LAR

STORY TARA Statistics BY Canada reportsLEVICK that of the 97,000 new businesses created every year, one third do not survive their first five years.

The SMARTstart program channel the energy and enthusiasm of new entrepreneurs into eight months of small-business training. It’s proven that business ILLUSTRATIONS BYaims LIAto GOLEMBA

owners with education in entrepreneurship have an 80 to 90 per cent chance of success.

This made-in-Airdrie entrepreneurial training program offers online learning, workshops with local experts, mentorship planning to people withAN a business WHATand IS business THE NO. 1 QUALITY ENTREPREN Airdrie’s award-winning SMARTstart program has Itbeen idea and owners who have been in operation for less than three years. is all about providing real-world business skills and access to the coaching entrepreneurs need to NEEDS TO HAVE IN ORDER TO BE SUCCESSFU pairing entrepreneurs with business mentors since 2014. help set their business up for success.

Each entrepreneur walks away with a completed plan – either feasibility, business or strategic – and connections to the Airdrie business community.

Bennett (The I.T. More than 100years, people have thecompleted program.

In the past eight more than 125completed entrepreneurs have the program. The 2022 program is made Andrew up of 10 entrepreneurs representing nineCompany): businesses and Persisten 11 mentors. tenaciousness about achieving their objectives.

Entrepreneurs have opened businesses, grown their Over the next two issues, we feature our participating entrepreneurs.

businesses and improved their business practices.

Some participants also determine that their idea is not viable or that they don’t have what it takes to be an entrepreneur. SMARTstart also considers this a success.

SMARTstart is all about helping entrepreneurs realize their potential. Meet six of the program’s current entrepreneurs and their mentors.

SMARTstart also has three mentors at large. They are not paired with an entrepreneur this year; instead they work with any and all as needed!

WATCH VIDEO GREETINGS AND LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR ENTREPRENUERS AT AIRDRIELIFE.COM

Joan Traub (retired, former owner of Airdrie Y BONFIRE SHADES

NAME: COURTNEY Passion.

TheySTERANKO need to believe in their product or Add some fun, flare and style to your sunny day. Bonfire and their to outshine their competition.

Shades are full ability UV protective sunglasses with bamboo arms, a lightweight feel and polarized lenses. My husband and I reJo-Anne Yau (Masuch Law): An entrepreneur m cently took over a friend’s startup business and are excited read the products marketto –youknow consumer toable bring to these affordable via our where online store and person at local markets. is, inwhere it’s going, and how to fit into the marke Why entrepreneurship: Connecting with people and creating impact has been the fuel to my fire. I have a lot of enthusiasm for what I love and I have been so fortunate for my online network marketing business that has kickstarted this all in my pursuit of connecting with my passions and purpose. I want our girls to grow up knowing that any and all opportunities are worth exploring and that personal growth, taking risks, accepting challenges, giving back and helping others is essential.

What I hope to learn: How to develop a business plan. I also want to establish roles and responsibilities in our partnership and learn how to do email marketing.

NAME: JARET STERANKO Our sunglass company has great products, great energy and the potential to be a big success. There are seven different styles and they come in many different colours. You’ll find a colour and style for every occasion.

Why entrepreneurship: I have been a firefighter for over 10 years. In 2019 I slipped off the truck at work and tore my Achilles tendon. Since being off work, I have been unable to do the things that I normally do, and this challenge was exactly what I was looking for.

What I hope to learn: We would love to see our shades in local stores and across Canada. I feel like we are just “winging it” so far and think getting help with organization would be a big win for me. I don’t have any experience with running and owning a business, so want to feel more confident when making decisions.

MENTOR: KARI LINES, BUDGET BLINDS OF AIRDRIE What do you wish you would have known when you started? I wish I would have acquired a mentor and a business coach earlier on in my career as the ones I have now are extremely valuable. I also wish I would have known to not take things personally when it comes to business.

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W O R K L I F E | STA R T I N G O U T

CHENG’S BUBBLER

NAME: EMALYN PLAZO Cheng’s Bubbler offers bubble tea with a twist – our bubble teas and smoothies are made with fresh fruit versus the fruit powders commonly used. We also offer croffles, which are a marriage between a croissant and a waffle iron, served up with deliciously sweet toppings like brown sugar, ice cream, chocolate and fresh fruit. I opened the first shop in Crossfield this winter and hope to expand to a second shop in Airdrie within one year.

Why entrepreneurship: I love to talk and mingle with people, hear their story and serve them food that will start up a conversation. My previous business failed through COVID – I have come to realize that failing is just the other side of the road and SMARTstart is a guiding hand that can lead me in the right direction.

What I hope to learn: How to boost my marketing strategy, be able to do my own accounting and properly do business in Canada. In the next five years, I aim to have a chain of businesses.

MENTOR: GARY ARMSTRONG, EMPOWERED EMPLOYEE EDUCATION My most important advice to any entrepreneur: Have a clear, concise, actionable plan.

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JESA TRAVEL

NAME: JESSICA ABRAMYK Jesa Travel focuses on travel that gives back. I match travellers with their ideal vacation while ensuring that the tour operators I work with embrace responsible and regenerative tourism practices. I also plant five trees in Canada once a booking completes their travel. My business idea evolved from my love of travel, other sustainable businesses, wanting to spread positivity and giving back.

Why entrepreneurship: I believe that the world can become a better place when we get out of our comfort zones, see what beauty there is in other countries, and experience other cultures. By combining my passion for adventure, a knack for organization and drive for success, I know I will create a business that brings myself and my travellers joy.

What I hope to learn: How to optimize my time and be very organized. I would also like to learn more about the legal side of running a business and gain more skills in entrepreneurship. My biggest goal is perfecting my customer journey to ensure they have an incredible experience from start to finish.

MENTOR: ANKUR GOKLANEY, LA CAPITALE FINANCIAL SECURITY My most important advice to any entrepreneur: In order to succeed, you must believe you can!

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W O R K L I F E | STA R T I N G O U T

ECOLOGY OF EASE

NAME: CHELSEA DUNLOP I am motivated to help people with overwhelm and to live an easier life. Ecology of Ease will assist people to conceptualize their home and routine as an important piece of their personal ecosystem. Using a minimalist mindset, I will help clients re-evaluate the contents and functionality of their home with a goal to save them time and money.

Why entrepreneurship: After earning my M.Sc., I made the choice to care for my young children and to move internationally to support my spouse’s career. An extended absence from the paid workforce made it challenging to secure a job in my field. But my life experiences of constant relocation and seeing how others live had given me new perspectives and skills. I realized I could pair my drive to help others with my love of sharing minimalism.

What I hope to learn: I hope SMARTstart can teach me how to earn an income doing what I love. I think all the workshops will be invaluable in teaching me things I likely hadn’t even considered. I’m very grateful to have a mentor who has walked this path before and think it will be great to have peers to learn alongside.

MENTOR: JENNIFER BENNER, BENNER DATABASE DESIGNS What do you wish you would have known when you started? I wish I’d had a better understanding of my personality traits and how to use them to their full advantage. I also should have had a scalability strategy in place as part of my business plan.

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citylife A C LO S E R LO O K AT YO U R C O M M U N I T Y

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66 PARKOUR | 72 MÉTIS MAN | 77 URBAN FARMING

C I T Y L I F E | C U LT U R E

PIPE

CEREMONY STORY BY JODY SANDERSON PHOTOS BY SERGEI BELSKI

“Everything follows the pipe”

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Belle Piche and Elder Pamela Lashmore dance a Métis jig

étis Elder Pamela Lashmore is unequivocal about the traditional Indigenous path to reconciliation and understanding after a pipe and teepee raising ceremony held at Airdrie City Hall March 21.

“We conduct the pipe ceremony in honour of our elders and our grandfathers,” explains Lashmore, who grew up in Airdrie. “The ceremony – which is never photographed, out of respect – traditionally takes place in a teepee, with offerings of prayers, singing and dancing. A teepee was raised and taken down the same day in front of city hall, just for this occasion.”

Several steps were taken to ensure city council’s Indigenous Engagement Strategy moved forward with inclusivity and respect for traditional protocol.

Jennifer Lutz, Airdrie’s new community development team leader, explains how it all transpired.

“We consulted several people: senior leadership, past volunteers, community leaders and Indigenous Elders about how to proceed.

There were so many prayers offered to ensure our goal of building relationships was done properly, opening dialogue with the Spirit world.”

The team met with the Elders of the Stoney Nakoda First Nation in Morley, who enthusiastically agreed to be a part of this tradition.

“They provided the pipe, the pipe carriers and helpers. Staff and council participated in the actual raising of the teepee. We showcased traditional dancing and singing. We celebrated the sharing of bannock with staff and residents during the day and approximately 60 people were able to attend. It was a wonderful sharing of culture and experience.”

Lutz explains this special ceremony was the first opportunity to introduce a rich, tangible commitment to truth and reconciliation.

Lashmore couldn’t be happier with the outcome.

“What seems fast-tracked, has actually been in the works for the last 20 years.” Lashmore laughs at the irony. “Pipe ceremonies are traditionally simple, but extremely important. They are usually lengthy, interspersed with prayer, singing and dancing.

Stoney Nakoda Knowledge Keeper Ollie Benjamin helps Mayor Peter Brown

We started here by giving protocol offerings to the Elders, of tobacco, ribbons and cloth. It is imperative that a pipe ceremony align with the Seven Sacred Teachings, and we take care to ensure that occurs.”

A resident of Water Valley now, Lashmore recalls her Airdrie childhood and youth.

“Airdrie was a wonderful place to grow up. School, sports, work.

And it was so small! I remember when there was only one main road through town.”

She has no recollection of any racism growing up.

“Airdrie wasn’t racist. Racism came to Airdrie.”

Lashmore’s goal in life has been to honour both her First Nations and European heritage.

“I’m a descendant of both,” she says, “and I’m called to live accordingly. Not everyone necessarily agrees with that.”

She has since become an influential cultural teacher, and consultant across the country. As Resident Elder, Lashmore spends one day a week in the community, working with Airdrie’s community development team, and new culture and heritage advisor.

“I feel fortunate to be a part of bringing cultural awareness of our traditions to my hometown. I would love for Airdrie to be an integral part of our Indigenous culture, recognizing and celebrating our deep Métis roots here.”

Lashmore, Lutz and the rest of the team are currently planning celebrations for National Indigenous Peoples Day, taking place June 21, in Nose Creek Park.

“We have many activities planned,” says Lutz. “We are collaborating with the Stoney Nakoda First Nation and will definitely be repeating the tradition of the teepee raising, so that everyone will get the chance to see it. We will offer Indigenous dancing and singing. We will also be providing traditional cultural information and education. We are also very pleased the Stoney Elders will also be in attendance for this special day.” life More information on times and activities is available at airdrie.ca

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C I T Y L I F E | AC T I V E

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Picture a more refined child’s game of avoiding hot lava.…

STORY AND PHOTO BY CARL PATZEL

P

“Because it can be trained on anything anywhere, anywhere in the world, we think parkour may become one of the biggest sports in the world”

arkour may sounds like, well, a walk in the park.

But as you watch these modern-day superherolike athletes defying gravity, vaulting over obstacles, concrete barriers and other three dimensional objects, this isn’t a casual afternoon stroll.

No cape crusaders screaming faster than a speeding bullet required, just a fearless pursuit of pulling off the incredible body manipulation movements which social media feasts on and makes movie goers gasp.

“This particular sport, other than object manipulation (soccer, basketball etc.), hits every single type of movement a human can do and it’s built around the best and most efficient way for the human body to move,” says Brody Atkin, head coach or parkour and freerunning at Airdrie Edge Gymnastics.

With over a decade of experience long time practitioners, Brody and brother Jared have authored Alberta’s Parkour Curriculum and Coaching Resources booklet with hopes the manual will be adopted Canada wide in the next couple of years.

“Not only is this exciting for all of us, and great for the sport, but it will also set up Airdrie and the surrounding area as a hub for parkour in Alberta and Canada.”

Spreading the word and growing the sport also prompted the parkour duo to host an invitational competition in early April.

Young boys and girls took to the course, flying over smaller obstacles and a goliath six-foot wall, attempting to not touch the floor in between. Picture a more refined child’s game of avoiding hot lava.

Enthusiastic expressions were plastered on their faces as they ducked, dove and vault through the free-running course.

In some aspects Brody equates parkour to becoming the best kid on the playground, flipping off monkey bars or leaping over steel pipes landing safely on their feet.

“That’s essentially what we are doing is becoming all those things we loved and playing games on the playground as a kid. As adults we’re just taking that further.”

Apart from instilling body awareness “pure movement” skills, and physical literacy – the art of building competence, motivation and confidence in one’s abilities – parkour prepares the athletes to evolve from the padded surfaces in the gymnastics club to concrete, steel and wood surfaces found in the real world.

In this realm, the urban environment becomes your playground.

“Because it can be trained on anything anywhere, anywhere in the world, we think parkour may become one of the biggest sports in the world,” says Jared. life S U M M E R 2022

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C I T Y L I F E | S P O R TS

Extreme flag football STORY AND PHOTOS BY CARL PATZEL

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“We’re really trying to grow football as a staple here. If we can do it well at a young age we set them for success and they’re going to love and enjoy the game.”

S

imilar to its moniker, Extreme flag football may sound intense, but this version of the North American game is built to safely introduce youngsters to the pleasure of the pigskin.

Decked out in protective helmets, shoulder and lower-body pads, and colourful jerseys, football-loving kids and parents are looking to this rendition of the gridiron sport for their athletic conquests.

While injuries can occur in any sport, flag football poses two risks: contact when hitting the ground, or incidental player collisions while chasing flags or running a passing route, says Nolan Rohl, Airdrie Minor Football program director.

“In Extreme flag because they’re in equipment; it reduces the actual injury risk with bumping helmets or shoulder pads.

Even if they hit the ground, they have full protection. The risk in tackle football typical comes from the actual tackling,” Rohl adds.

“Parents are very comfortable with the kids making that transition (to Extreme) realizing that 99 per cent of contact in football is not the tackling it’s actually the blocking.”

After their inaugural season startup in 2021, Extreme has already added two editions in 2022 starting in April and adding a fall season beginning in August. Originally open to players 8-10 years, another league for those aged 11-13 has been added and future versions for 14-16 years are anticipated.

Utilizing modified rules, Extreme is played on a narrower field with smaller-roster teams of 12-14 players. They’ve incorporated a zone, passive blocking concept relying on obstructive contact lessening incidental damage.

“You don’t have any big kids running over the small kids; they’re preventing them from moving,” says Rohl. “They may get a little bump or bruise but they’re not going to break anything.”

What began as a somewhat gap filler between non-equipment Airdrie Football Society flag football and Airdrie Minor tackle football, Extreme is growing in popularity with players easily moving back and forth from the three leagues.

Apart from camaraderie, competition, group organization and just plain fun, coaches introduce players to terminology, playbooks, communication, positional play, open-field running and passing routes. These confidence-building skills are promoted to help those possibly looking to move onto minor football.

Ultimately Rohl says the goal is to give every child an opportunity for more play and a chance to experience every aspect of the game from offence to defence and different positions.

“If they don’t play we don’t get any improvement and we haven’t done them a justice on our end as coaches,” say Rohl of the passfirst, excitement-filled game.

“We’re really trying to grow football as a staple here. If we can do it well at a young age we set them for success and they’re going to love and enjoy the game.” life S U M M E R 2022

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CITYLIFE | PROFILE

“

I love our motivated, energetic and creative people we have here, and I look forward to sharing my ideas

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”

GRACE

UNDER

FIRE I

t was the early ’90s and Mike Pirie was hooked on informational docudrama Rescue 911.

There was something about the way host William Shatner described how police, firefighters and ordinary people responded to real-life 911 calls.

Pirie knew that was what he wanted to do.

“I actually was a paramedic first; eventually I became an advanced care paramedic and I did a practicum with Airdrie Emergency Services,” says Pirie.

“I remember I worked in the Main Street fire hall and between watching that show and being in that environment I was instantly hooked on the concept of fire and medicine together.”

Over the years, Pirie would progress through the ranks before becoming Airdrie’s newest fire chief in a late-April ceremony in 2022. He replaced Kevin Weinberger, who was Airdrie’s fire chief for nearly 11 years.

“It took two days to sink in,” says Pirie when he found out he got the top job.

“It’s a big achievement. The role of the fire chief is really the coach and the mentor. You set the standard, the pace and the ideal for everybody. I have always said if I do my job properly, if I have taught you well – you should be able to add your own value and move the department forward.”

AIRDRIE LINKS

In 1996 Pirie joined the Calgary Fire Department as a paramedic firefighter.

He would return to Airdrie in 1999 as a platoon captain, eventually becoming platoon chief.

He joined the management team of the Airdrie Fire Department in 2020 as assistant deputy chief of operations. That same year, he also received a Governor General of Canada medal for exemplary service in fire services.

But, he says, his greatest accomplishment is raising two of the greatest children you could ever ask for – and leading a growing team of people in Airdrie.

Meet Airdrie’s new fire chief STORY BY JOSIE RANDALL PHOTOS BY KRISTY REIMER

“Over the years I saw [Airdrie] go from being a heavily volunteer-based service with an ambulance system through to a full-time career fire department,” says Pirie.

“I moved here when we were 14,000 people and now we are well over 70,000. Oh boy, the demand for service has absolutely skyrocketed.”

GROWING DEMAND

In 2021, Pirie says the Airdrie Fire Department received 2,019 calls for service. As of March 2022, he says the department is already seeing a 13 per cent increase in calls.

Pirie says he’s looking forward to tackling the challenges of growth – even though it’s frustrating sometimes.

“The need for this service is dramatically higher. Not only the demand for call volume, but for the services that we offer. There’s more depth of service, more depth of knowledge needed,” Pirie says.

“But we always figure it out. That’s what I love. I love our motivated, energetic and creative people we have here, and I look forward to sharing my ideas.”

FUTURE PLANS

As fire chief, Pirie has a set of guiding principles he hopes to bring to the department.

He wants staff to feel empowered to make their own decisions instead of going through a bureaucratic process. He also wants to be fully transparent in what the department does.

“When we do a good job, we should say we do a good job. When we don’t do a good job, we should learn and do better,” Pirie says.

He also believes in a strong culture of training.

“The fire department exists to serve the people who call us for service.” says Pirie.

“When we train well, we perform well. That will be evident as we move forward. We already have a strong team, but I will continue to reinforce those guiding principles and Airdrie will see those benefits.” life S U M M E R 2022

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CITYLIFE | LEADER

Lawrence Gervais:

MÉTIS MAN STORY BY JODY SANDERSON | PHOTOS BY KRISTY REIMER

I

t’s not the first time an entertainer has made the leap from performance to politics, but for Lawrence Gervais, president of the Métis Nation of Alberta, Region 3, it’s practically a literal one.

“I was probably only 12 when I walked into the local dance studio in Prince George, to take this girl to a movie. I was just standing in this room full of girls and I remember thinking, ‘Well, this is interesting.’”

Gervais wasn’t a dancer, but was asked if he’d participate in the production they were doing for a local telethon. At the time, he didn’t realize he had the build and temperament for classical ballet, and was soon being sought out by other companies, including the Alberta Ballet and the Royal Winnipeg Ballet. Male dancers are rare. A male Indigenous dancer? Almost unheard of.

“After 17 years eating and breathing ballet, plus a few injuries, I asked myself how would I ever retire? There are no jobs for dancers in the arts after their career. What I discovered, however, being Indigenous, organizations started coming to me. Which is how I evolved into the community work I do now.”

This career path began in the worst postal code in Canada – Main and Hastings in Vancouver.

He worked the streets with the Indigenous community during the day and was involved with classical ballet in the evenings.

“I eventually became the executive director of the Friendship Centre there, then opened my own drop-in centre for the Elders, sitting in healing circles everyday. No one in ballet knew what I was doing during the day, and no one at my day work knew anything about the ballet.” He chuckles. “I was kind of incognito.”

What intrigued Gervais most at the time were the stories he was hearing. How people got to where they were, what influenced them.

“When people talk to me about reconciliation, it’s all about sitting down with the person, and listening to their truth. When we take the time to do that, we’ll progress in this reconciliation thing. Corporate businesses and government have it down on paper, but it doesn’t really work until you take the time to listen meaningfully to people’s stories.”

Wading into the murky waters of Indigenous experience and history, Gervais shares his take on being Métis.

“I remember being chased home by white kids and being chased home by native kids when I was a kid. Métis aren’t one or the other, we know our place. We’re hesitant to say we’re Métis; we just say we’re French. And Alberta is way behind other provinces in this area. I was speaking with a Jewish fellow recently who told me the Jewish experiences mirrors the Métis in that many don’t acknowledge who they truly are either.”

The Supreme Court of Canada ruled what is called the Daniels Decision in 2016, which declared the federal and provincial governments have a fiduciary duty to Métis and non-status Indians. In 2016, the federal government signed the Métis Nation Accord.

“Now,” explains Gervais, “we have four meetings a year with the prime minister. We have signed significant agreements that will propel us toward the goal of self-government. These are huge advancements … and even the Métis Nation has to adapt to that.

“What’s curious about Métis people is their hesitation to identify as Indigenous, because then they will be related to the First Nations experience, and they don’t want to be involved in that.

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“I just want to tell our story.

Be visible.”

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CITYLIFE | LEADER

MÉTIS

NATION The Indigenous population in Canada is comprised of three distinct nations: First Nations, Inuit and the Métis Nation.

Métis have mixed European and Indigenous ancestry, primarily related to the French fur trading industry, originating largely in Western Canada and radiating outward from the Red River Settlement.

“They also don’t want to be discriminated against. They didn’t grow up on a confined piece of land, with the poverty, the water issues … they grew up just like everyone else.”

However, by becoming registered members, Métis people have access to education and scholarship programs, health and housing programs and a host of other resources.

Gervais was elected as vice-president of Métis Nation Alberta Region 3 in 2014 and has since become president. Region 3 is large, bordered to the north by the Red Deer River and south to the U.S. border.

When not advocating for the Métis Nation, he laughs and says he’s just the same as everyone else.

“I’m a husband, dad to twins who are six years old. We go swimming at Genesis. We play T-ball and soccer. My wife, who I’ve known since Grade 9, and I moved to Airdrie because there’s so much to do athletically here. I love it here. It’s not Calgary, but it’s not far from Calgary. This is a great town. We wanted something more along the lines of where we grew up in Prince George.”

Gervais is also an avid Montreal Canadiens and Toronto Blue Jays fan.

He joins Ross ‘Memphis’ Pambrun on a regular podcast called The Squeaky Wheel that can be found on YouTube. It’s a fun, informative, sometimes cheeky 45 minutes of most things Métis.

Gervais’ dream is to open a Métis cultural centre right here in Airdrie.

“I just want to tell our story. Be visible. In schools, at conferences, a Stampede barbecue.

I’d like to have a variety show, by Métis people.

“We’re available to talk to everyone. We are having our provincial assembly at the Grey Eagle Casino in August. We’re also going to hold a rodeo that same weekend in Balzac. I’m excited about our future as a nation.”

The man needs to be cloned. life To learn more, visit metis3.org

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The Métis National Council (MNC), the political organization that represents the Métis Nation, defined “Métis” in 2002 as: “a person who self-identifies as Métis, is distinct from other Aboriginal Peoples, is of historic Métis Nation ancestry and who is accepted by the Métis Nation.” The MNC defines the Métis homeland as the three Prairie provinces and parts of Ontario, British Columbia, the Northwest Territories and the northern United States. Members of the Métis Nation have a common culture, ancestral language (Michif), history and political tradition, and are connected through an extensive network of kin relations.

First Nations have 120,000 card carrying members living in Alberta.

The Métis Nation has a population of approximately 117,000. Approximately 48,000 hold membership in the Métis Nation.

There are currently about 1,000 Métis living in the city of Airdrie.

C I T Y L I F E | G I V I N G B AC K

DRIVE HAPPINESS STORY BY JODY SANDERSON | PHOTO BY SERGEI BELSKI

I

magine. You finally get that eye appointment in Calgary you’ve been waiting for since your referral three months ago. Problem? Not being able to see afterwards to get yourself home. And any transportation that you may currently use is unavailable.

It’s not a problem anymore.

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C I T Y L I F E | G I V I N G B AC K

In 2021, Drive Happiness and Volunteer Airdrie teamed together to provide a low-cost, accessible volunteer driver service for the City of Airdrie. The registered not-for-profit assists seniors independently living in their own homes.

The Drive Happiness program has provided transportation since 2002, covering the province north to Slave Lake, south to Lethbridge, west to Jasper and east to Lloydminster. Currently in Airdrie the program serves 50 clients with a fleet of 15 volunteer drivers.

“And we’re always looking for more,” adds Leon Cygman, Volunteer Airdrie vice chair and driver.

Drivers choose their own hours and receive fuel reimbursement.

The program was created specifically for seniors, 65+, on a fixed income with mobility or health issues.

Clients, or riders, purchase tickets for $10 apiece and are provided 90 minutes of driving time or up to a 40-kilometre distance.

All riders must be able to enter and exit the vehicle on their own.

Riders must provide at least three days’ notice prior to their trip, and that does not include weekends or holidays.

In 2020, the Drive Happiness program served 6,000 clients and provided almost 16,000 hours of volunteer time, including the drivers who drove up to 133,000 km. The program’s volunteers are also involved in advocacy and administration.

“It’s a wonderful success story, and it’s just so gratifying to be involved in this,” says Cygman, who teaches business at Mount Royal University. “I really enjoy my riders’ liveliness and enthusiasm. I think the best part is just being able to hear their stories.

These people have interesting lives and having them share that with me is an honour.”

Riders share similar stories about their positive experience.

Julie Tkachuk has been a resident of Airdrie for 40 years and has been using Drive Happiness since it first arrived in May last year.

“I can’t say enough good things about the service,” she says. “I found it by fluke, just googling Volunteer Airdrie, who suggested it to me. And now I recommend it to my friends.”

Although Tkachuk, who is on her own, is able to tool around Airdrie, she has a standing appointment at the Foothills Hospital once a week, and Drive Happiness just takes away the cost and stress of driving and parking.

“Their rate is so reasonable, and they’re very flexible. I only have to give three days’ notice and it’s no problem. I’m able to e-transfer the money, so everything is very simple.”

Tkachuk, who worked with Scotiabank for 30 years before retiring here, is fortunate to have her daughters and grandchildren in town and says they’re very helpful with anything she needs.

“But my one daughter works, and the other has little ones, so they’re busy too.”

She is most impressed with the drivers.

“They are all so warm and friendly, and are all prompt. We’re never late. I can’t say enough about how helpful they are, really going beyond what’s just expected. I don’t know what I would have done without them.”

“Volunteer Airdrie was really excited to be able to offer this program here, and the results have been amazing,” says Cygman, a longtime volunteer who is also a board member with Airdrie Public Library and Marigold Library System. “I hope when more people hear about us, they won’t feel isolated and alone. We really are happy to help.” life For more information, visit volunteerairdrie.ca

“I really enjoy my riders’ liveliness and enthusiasm. I think the best part is just being able to hear their stories. These people have interesting lives and having them share that with me is an honour.”

Anne Beaty Memorial Scholarship Open to all Alberta high school graduates and post-secondary students planning a career in journalism or communications. $1,000 awarded each year.

Apply now at airdrielife.com

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C I T Y L I F E | FA R M I N G

A labour of love AIRDRIE URBAN FARM COLLECTIVE STORY BY JOSIE RANDALL

“We needed a place where people could come and learn how to grow food and actively participate by doing it themselves. It just brings a sense of community when we are all working together.”

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n a dusty plot in the southwest corner of Airdrie, you’ll find a three-year-old toddling around with a mini wheelbarrow doing his best to pick weeds around tomatoes.

Perhaps doing more harm than good, according to Jenn Katerina, who created Airdrie Urban Farm Collective in spring 2021.

The idea was to create a space where people from all walks of life could gather outdoors to learn about growing food by getting their hands dirty – and eventually enjoy the fruits of their labour.

“It’s not like a community garden where everyone gets their own

space. Here, everyone does everything together. We all plant, water, tend and harvest everything together as a community,” says Katerina.

“Airdrie needed something like this. We needed a place where people could come and learn how to grow food and actively participate by doing it themselves. It just brings a sense of community when we are all working together.”

It was inspired by Grow Calgary Farm, one of the largest urban community farms in Canada that grows fresh produce for social agencies in Calgary.

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A new irrigation system to water plants is also in the works by volunteers. Last year, they simply trudged back and forth from a single well on the property with watering cans.

“We have some pretty dedicated volunteers. We had an 85-year-old man with his cane come to help in whatever capacity he could for however long he could,” says Katerina.

She says the Farm is always looking for volunteers, donations or sponsors to continue developing the space.

“There’s a ton of people who just don’t have the opportunity to grow things from their homes. I think everybody deserves to have fresh produce and access to different fresh food,” says Katerina.

“So an opportunity to have that experience and learn about where their food comes from and how it grows is just icing on the cake. The carrot cake.” life

TEAMWORK MAKES THE DREAM WORK Airdrie Urban Farm Collective got its start when DayBreak Community Church loaned Katerina a half acre of land that hadn’t been used in some time. It was previously a soccer field, which meant the ground had little grass and was seriously compacted with gravel and clay.

Katerina says they spent most of their first growing season working the ground, eventually building around 40 “lasagna beds” by layering large pieces of cardboard with straw, manure, food waste and topsoil.

At the end of the season, there were 220 pounds of potatoes, 2,000 tomatoes and “more beets than you would ever believe,” Katerina says.

“We relied on everything last year to be donated to us down to literally our last shovel. The dirt, the woodchips, even the cardboard that we used were all donated to us.”

ICING ON THE CARROT CAKE In 2022, Katerina is looking to double their yield. She hopes to partner with Airdrie Food Bank and other local organizations needing fresh produce.

The Farm is also reaching out to local artists to help brighten up their sheds and chicken coops.

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ESTATE • ATTACHED • REAR LANE